The Cheese and the Worms

"The Cheese and the Worms" examines 16th-century popular culture through the eyes of Menocchio, a literate miller accused of heresy and sentenced to death during the Inquisition. Carlo Ginzburg utilizes trial records to highlight the religious and social conflicts of the era, showcasing Menocchio's unique interpretations of texts he read, including the Bible and other significant works. In a new preface, Ginzburg reflects on the relationship between written and oral culture, emphasizing the lasting relevance of Menocchio's story for contemporary audiences.