Giacomo Casanova term in written English was around 1852. References in culture to Casanova are numerous—in books, films, theater, and music. Giacomo Casanova Giacomo Girolamo Casanova (; 2 April 1725 – 4 June 1798) was an Italian adventurer, Scottish Rite Master Mason and author from the Republic of Venice. His autobiography, "Histoire de ma vie" ("Story of My Life"), is regarded as one of the most authentic sources of the customs and norms of European social life during the 18th century. As was not uncommon at the time, Casanova, depending on circumstances, used more or less fictitious names, such as baron or
Giacomo Casanova could act violently, sometimes calling for a duel. Casanova admits that he was not disciplined enough to be a professional gambler: "I had neither prudence enough to leave off when fortune was adverse, nor sufficient control over myself when I had won." Nor did he like being considered as a professional gambler: "Nothing could ever be adduced by professional gamblers that I was of their infernal clique." Although Casanova at times used gambling tactically and shrewdly—for making quick money, for flirting, making connections, acting gallantly, or proving himself a gentleman among his social superiors—his practice also could be compulsive and