Roberto Calasso, the Italian publisher, translator and writer whose wide-ranging works explored the evolution and mysteries of human consciousness, from the earliest myths and rituals to modern civilization, died on Wednesday in Milan. His publishing house, Adelphi, announced the death. Mr. Calasso was a rare figure in the literary world — an erudite writer and polymath and a savvy publisher who was able to reach a substantial readership for books he released through Adelphi Edizioni, the prestigious Italian publishing house where he worked for some 60 years. As a writer, he produced more than a dozen works over nearly five decades. His work drew international acclaim, and was translated into 28 languages and published in 29 countries.

Source: International New York Times July 30, 2021 22:30 UTC