Entry into the archive
The published translation of the Gasparutto and Moduco proceedings begins in Cividale on March 21, 1575. Bartolomeo Sgabarizza, a priest associated with Brazzano, brought reports that drew attention to Gasparutto. The reader encounters the events through testimony and a later edited translation, not direct access to the original spoken exchange.
A chain of reporting
A sick child, discussions about harmful witchcraft, an alleged remedy and a reported nocturnal gathering appear in the case narrative. These details reached officials through several voices. Treating every statement as if it were a personal observation by one named witness would flatten the evidence.
Why this case matters
The case supplies names, dates and a window into how an unfamiliar popular belief came before inquisitorial authorities. The significance lies partly in the dialogue between the accused and their questioners. The record preserves both reported belief and institutional interpretation; they must remain separate.
Source and revision record
- Trial transcripts: Paolo Gasparutto and Battista Moduco, 1575–1581 (translated excerpt via University of Washington)Edited translation of primary record · A modern publication of translated trial testimony, not a facsimile of the original manuscript. Copyright may apply.
- Carlo Ginzburg, The Night Battles (updated edition, 2026)Publisher listing · Publisher bibliographic and interpretive overview; updated edition dated September 8, 2026.