Propaganda e opinione pubblica: Giulio II nella comunicazione politica europea

Abstract – The fame of Pope Julius II Della Rovere is inextricably tied to the effects of his patronage, but certainly also to his infamy as a «terrible» and «warrior» pope. Contemporary opinion about Julius II inevitably hinges on the wars waged by him, ranging from glowing praise to ferocious criticism. This paper intends to illustrate how Julius’ wars were judged, celebrated, and criticized – and consequently the pope himself – in 16th century political communication in Europe. Many traces of the discourses regarding those wars can be found in the contemporary print media intended for broad distribution: an editorial production often influenced by political power and seeking to achieve wide consensus, characterized by notably propagandistic overtones. This form of political communication was not exclusively meant for the cultural and governing elites, but for a «general public, popular by dimension and composition».