ブルーノの死 (完)

Abstract

There are some problems about the life of Giordano Bruno, especially about the inquisitions in his later years. The missing documents of the inquisitions might prevent us for ever from their thorough examination. The writer would, however, systematically consult all the documents which have appeared to this day, pursue Bruno's attitude during his imprisoned days, and try to find a clue to clarify the foundamental points of Bruno's philosophy, closely connected with his own intellectual integrity. First, motives of Bruno's return to Italy and causes of the arrest by the Venetian Court are examined. Then, in referring to the inquisition documents of Celestino da Verona, his attitudes during eight years' imprisonment in Venice up to the eventual transfer to the Roman Court are followed up. It seems that Bruno had always maintained his basic philosophical opinions, in spite of the apparent changes and contradictions. (The documents the writer here depends upon are those by V. Spampanato, A. Mercati and L. Firpo.) Conclusion: About the problems of faith Bruno was willing to concede to the court as far as possible, but he did consistently insist upon his own opinions about the philosophical problems. To keep his intellectual integrity he rather chose death. This choice was for him affirmation of human life rather than its negation. It was not so much Bruno's heroic fanaticism as a conclusion of his humanistic philosophy. Here the writer would find a key to Bruno's philosophy.