Tradurre gli eretici: il caso di Bernardino Ochino

Abstract

This paper examines the works of the former Capuchin Bernardino Ochino (1487-1564), beginning with his departure from Italy and tracing the numerous Latin translations which, supported by the press, circulated widely and cemented the thinker’s renown even during his lifetime. Particular emphasis is placed on the Latinisations produced by two intellectuals: Taddeo Duno for the De Purgatorio and Sebastiano Castellio for the Dialogi XXX and the Laberinti del libero arbitrio. For each work, the article reflects on the translator’s role, the reasons for their interest in Ochino’s preaching, the choice of printers, and the type of Latinisation undertaken. The article aims to demonstrate to what extent these Latin translations – together with a strong “promotional” drive provided by specific publishers linked to the Reformed world – may have contributed to Ochino’s fame across Europe and into the present day.