Giacomo Casanova: A Biographical Portrait

Works in Progress Seminar: Giacomo Casanova: A Biographical Portrait

Presenter: Laurence Bergreen

This presentation is drawn from Laurence Bergreen’s most recent book, Casanova: The World of a Seductive Genius (Simon & Schuster, 2016). Casanova’s life as a libertine, as well as his brilliant intellect and importance in European letters (he met both Voltaire and Mozart), will be discussed. The impact of two major traumas on his personal life will also be examined: first, the abandonment in early childhood by his mother, an actress and courtesan, and second, the early death of his father.

Laurence Bergreen is a major biographer, historian and chronicler of exploration. His books have been translated in over 25 languages. His most recent books include Columbus: The Four Voyages, 1492-1504 (Penguin Books, 2011) and Casanova: The World of a Seductive Genius (Simon & Schuster, 2016).

No CME/ CE credits offered.