1548-1600

Italian philosopher and scientist who wrote on a number of topics, including memory and the effect of language on human behavior. Initially a Dominican friar, Bruno's unorthodox views caused him trouble, so he left Italy and traveled throughout Europe. He mistrusted mathematics, preferring symbols and images, which gave his works a mystical tone. He enthusiastically supported the ideas of Nicolaus Copernicus, despite Church opposition. When he returned to Italy in 1592 he was arrested for heresy and, eventually, burnt at the stake.