Leopardi, Giacomo, 1798-1837

Giacomo Leopardi (1798-1837), poet and essayist, was born on 29 June 1798 in Recanati, Italy, and educated by private tutors. He read widely in his youth, and learnt several languages. Leopardi wrote poetry, tragedies and philosophical writing, and translated classical literature. The strain caused by these efforts led him to suffer from poor health throughout his life. In 1822 he went to Rome, where his works were well received, although he disliked the city itself. In his later years he settled in Naples, where he died on 14 June 1837.

From the guide to the Giacomo Leopardi: Letters, 1816-1834, (Cambridge University Library, Department of Manuscripts and University Archives)