Maria Antonia Scalera Stellini, or the Apulian poetic eighteenth century

Maria Antonia Scalera Stellini is an emblematically significant figure in the history of Italian literature, not only for her poetic talent, but also for her courage in challenging the social conventions of her time. Born in Acquaviva delle Fonti in the 17th century, Scalera Stellini is often considered a forerunner of feminism. Her work, “Li divertimento poetici”, as well as numerous theatrical works, reflect a deep awareness of the power of writing and the need to assert women’s right to artistic expression.

Despite adversity, including an arranged marriage and life’s challenges, Scalera Stellini persevered in her passion for writing. Her membership in the Accademia dell’Arcadia, a predominantly male environment, is a clear sign of her determination and ability to make her way in a male-dominated literary world. Her choice to publish her works under her maiden name and not use pseudonyms is a gesture of great modernity and independence.

Her life and work represent a struggle against the limitations imposed on women, emphasizing the difficulty of reconciling family responsibilities with artistic aspirations. Despite the recognition she obtained during her life, Scalera Stellini fell into oblivion after her death, partly due to a selection of works that excluded her from the literary panorama of the eighteenth century.

Today, her contribution is recognized as an important milestone in the history of women’s literature, testifying to a sensibility that paved the way for future generations of writers and activists. Her legacy lives on, inspiring movements of women’s associations and gender equality in the field of culture.

Una selezione delle sue poesie più belle in Italian