In existographies, Alvise Capuano (c.1525-1580) (FA:41) was an Italian free thinker noted for []
Overview
In 1577, Capuano was denounced to the Inquisition for his heterodox beliefs; which are the following: [1]
“I am an atheist. I do not believe god exists, or indeed, any supernatural being. I believe that the world was created by chance. I believe that when the body dies the soul dies also. I believe that Christ was the adopted son of the Madonna, born as other men are. I believe that angels and demons do not exist. I believe that there are no true witches; that witchcraft arises from melancholic humors. I believe that the world has neither beginning nor end. I believe that Christ’s miracles were not true miracles but natural acts. I believe that the only law that must be obeyed is the law of nature.”
— Alvise Capuano (1577), Inquisition trial testimony
On 7 May 1580, Capuano was condemned to perpetual imprisonment. Shortly thereafter, however, he was released; supposedly, per reason that he recanted (ΡΊ) his atheism and atheist creed. [2]
References
1. (a) Nelson, Alan H. (2003). Monstrous Adversary: the Life of Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford (pg. 212). Oxford University Press.
(b) Hecht, Jennifer M. (2004). Doubt: A History: The Great Doubters and Their Legacy of Innovation from Socrates and Jesus to Thomas (pg. 288). HarperOne.
