Gli animali nei 'Paralipomeni' di Giacomo Leopardi e le Scienze Naturali

The thesis aims to investigate animals in Paralipomeni della Batracomiomachia and Natural Science. The critical scope of the study highlights the absence of specific research on the topic at hand. This is despite the existence of important recent studies concerning links between various branches of science and other works by Leopardi, the results of which underline the author’s wide-ranging and consistent interest in science. Analysis of the animal kingdom and its comparison with humans can be seen in Leopardi’s largely reflective works, such as Zibaldone di pensieri and the early Dissertazioni filosofiche. It is also evident in his more creative works, including Operette morali, which contains many explicit references to both ancient and modern naturalist essays, ranging from the fundamental Historia Animalium by Aristotle to the more recent Histoire Naturelle by Buffon. The study aims to demonstrate the culmination of Leopardi’s active effort and participation in the historical debate on the ‘animal issue’, represented by one of the poet’s later productions: Paralipomeni. The poem’s depiction of animals elaborates and develops reflections on beasts, evolved by Leopardi throughout his life.