Maddalena Campiglia (1553–1595)

Maddalena Campiglia was born in Vicenza, in northeastern Italy. Her parents Polissena Verlato and Carlo Campiglia were from established noble families and had three children together before they married in 1565. As a young woman, Maddalena showed a particular interest and skill in literature, philosophy, and music. She was part of a cultural circle centered at the home of her cousin Elena Campiglia, who married the marchese Guido Sforza Gonzaga. There she met the poet Curzio Gonzaga, who became a friend. In 1576, she married Dionisio Colzè, an aristocrat, but separated from him about four years later. She wrote several poetical works acclaimed in her day. The best-known of her surviving works is the verse play Flori: A Pastoral Drama (1588). It is notable for its focus on the experiences and perceptions of its female protagonists and their ideals of female autonomy. She died in 1595 at age 41, following a long illness.