Giacomo Casanova, a Great Lover of Chemistry

A lesser-known aspect of Giacomo Girolamo Casanova's (1725−1798) personality is his strong affinity for the natural sciences, particularly chemistry. Based on his memoirs Histoire de ma vie, other writings, unpublished manuscript, and various contemporary sources, Casanova's interest in chemistry is traced from his youth to his final period in the chateau of Duchcov in Bohemia. It appears that Casanova possessed an unusually broad knowledge of chemical and alchemical practices, which he was able to apply pragmatically to enhance his social status. Key chemical episodes of his life are mentioned and analyzed: the commercialization of his knowledge of mercury amalgamation, chemical motifs in Casanova's escape from a Venetian prison, Casanova's relationship to alchemy – relationship with Madame d'Urfé, meeting with Count Saint Germain, analysis of his famous alchemical instructions for Karl Ernst von Biron – and his attempts to apply his chemical knowledge to industrial purposes. Casanova is thus portrayed as a witness and interpreter of the transition from the late alchemical tradition to the nascent modern chemistry of the eighteenth century. At the same time, the role of chemistry as a means of social mobility and intellectual prestige in Europe of Enlightenment is emphasized. An overview of key chemical events of Casanova's era and their possible echoes in his literary and philosophical work is provided. Casanova's life story thus vividly illustrates how chemical knowledge and experimental skills became valuable forms of social capital during the scientific revolution.