(Jordano), an atheistical writer, was born at Nolo in the kingdom of Naples; and about the year 1582, began to call in question some of the tenets of the Romish church, which occasioned his retiring to Geneva: but after two years stay there, he expressed his aversion to Calvinism in such a manner that he was expelled BRU [1491] BRU

pelled the city. After having staid some time at Lyons, Thoulouse, and Paris, he came to London, and continued two years in the house of Mr Cailleau the French ambassador. He was very well received by queen Elizabeth and the politest part of the court. His principal friends were Sir Philip Sidney and Sir Fulke Greville. With these and some others of their club, Bruno held assemblies; but as they treated of subjects of a very delicate nature, which could not suit the taste or capacity of every body, they kept the door always shut, and none but select persons were admitted into their company. At Sir Philip's request, he composed his Spaccio della Beffa Triumphant, which was printed in 8vo, 1584, and dedicated to that gentleman. This work, which is remarkable for nothing but its impiety, we are told in one of the Spectators, (n° 389), sold at an auction in London for 30l. From England he went to Wittenberg, and from thence to Prague, where he printed some tracts, in which he openly discovered his atheistical principles. After visiting some other towns in Germany, he made a tour to Venice. Here he was apprehended by order of the inquisition; tried; condemned; and refusing to retract, was burnt at the stake, February 9th 1600.