Giovanni Boccaccio

Italian author and poet; Decameron

Giovanni Boccaccio - Italian author and poet; Decameron
Born

1313
712 years ago

Died

December 21st, 1375
649 years ago — 62 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Italy

Links & References

An Italian author and poet from the 14th century, recognized as one of the founders of humanism. Known for significant literary contributions during the Renaissance period, especially through works that combined elements of romance and realism. The most prominent work is 'The Decameron', a collection of novellas that explores themes of love, fate, and morality through the lens of characters fleeing the plague. The work has influenced various aspects of literature and art, emphasizing the human experience. Also contributed to the development of the Italian language through his writings and is regarded as a key figure in the transition from medieval to modern literature.

Authored 'The Decameron'

Influenced Renaissance literature

Other People Who Died on December 21st

William Davison

Secretary to Queen Elizabeth I
Died
December 21st, 1608 416 years ago — None years old

Served as a secretary to Queen Elizabeth I of England. His role included managing correspondence and acting as an intermediary in matters of state. Played a significant part in the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots, by delivering the death warrant. Born around 1541 and passed away on December 21, 1608. Contributed to the administration of the Elizabethan court through the handling of diplomatic communications and intelligence matters.

Continue Reading

Nathan Milstein

Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
January 13th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1992 32 years ago — 88 years old

Born in Ukraine, Milstein became a prominent violinist and composer, establishing a successful career in classical music. Milstein studied under renowned instructors and began performing at a young age. Throughout the 20th century, he toured extensively, showcasing his virtuosity and artistry. He also contributed to the violin repertoire by composing and arranging works for the instrument. Milstein recorded a significant number of albums, becoming celebrated for his interpretations of concertos by composers such as Brahms and Tchaikovsky. His technique and expressive style made lasting contributions to the world of classical music.

Continue Reading

Władysław Witwicki

Polish psychologist and philosopher
Born
April 30th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1948 76 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent psychologist and philosopher from Poland, contributed significantly to the fields of psychology and philosophy. Worked extensively as a translator and historian, particularly focusing on philosophy and art. Engaged in artistic endeavors that highlighted the intersection of psychology and creative expression. His research delved into the philosophical underpinnings of art, exploring how these concepts relate to human psychology. Developed a body of work that emphasized the importance of understanding psychological processes in the appreciation of art and culture.

Continue Reading

Michelle Botes

South African actress in television drama
Born
October 12th, 1962 62 years ago
Died
December 21st, 2024 0 years ago — 62 years old

Botes began a career in acting in the 1980s and gained recognition for the role of Gladys in the long-running South African soap opera, 'Egoli: Place of Gold'. The portrayal contributed to the show's popularity and Botes became a household name in South Africa. In addition to her work on 'Egoli', she appeared in various stage productions and television series, showcasing her range as an actress. Botes has also participated in several local films and television projects, further establishing her presence in the South African entertainment industry.

Continue Reading

Claude Champagne

Canadian composer and violinist
Born
May 27th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1965 59 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1891, this individual was a prominent Canadian composer, violinist, and pianist. He studied at the Conservatoire de Paris and became instrumental in the development of Canadian classical music. The composition style blended French influences with Canadian themes. Contributions to music included innovative works that showcased Canadian cultural elements. Champagne held academic positions, teaching composition and music theory at various institutions. His work extended to the realm of arranging, with a focus on traditional Quebecois music. The legacy includes numerous compositions for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and solo instruments.

Continue Reading

Eric Coates

English viola player and composer
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1957 67 years ago — 71 years old

An English viola player and composer, focused on classical music throughout a prolific career. Coates composed numerous orchestral works and performed as a violist, garnering attention for contributions to the music community. Many compositions featured orchestral arrangements that became standards in concert repertoire. Coates maintained a significant presence in the music scene during the early to mid-20th century, creating works that resonated with audiences and musicians alike.

Continue Reading