Matteo Ricci
- Born:
- October 6, 1552, Macerata, Papal States (present-day Italy)
- Died:
- May 11, 1610, Beijing, Ming Dynasty (present-day China)
- Nationality:
- Italian
- Profession(s):
- Jesuit Priest, Missionary, Cartographer, Scholar
Early Life and Education
- Entered the Society of Jesus in Rome at the age of 19.
- Studied mathematics, astronomy, and cosmography at the Roman College.
- Received extensive training in theology and philosophy.
Career and Major Achievements
- Assigned to missionary work in Portuguese India in 1578.
- Arrived in Macau in 1582 and began studying the Chinese language and culture.
- Gained access to the Chinese interior by adopting Chinese customs and scholarly attire.
- Established missions in Zhaoqing, Shaozhou, and Nanchang.
- Presented a world map to the Wanli Emperor in 1601, which significantly influenced Chinese geography.
- Translated numerous Western scientific and philosophical texts into Chinese, and vice versa.
- Advocated for the accommodation of Chinese rituals within Christian practices, leading to the Rites Controversy.
- Served as the superior of the Jesuit mission in China.
Legacy and Impact
Matteo Ricci's profound impact on the cultural exchange between China and Europe during the late Ming Dynasty cannot be overstated. He skillfully bridged the gap between two vastly different civilizations through his linguistic abilities, scientific knowledge, and cultural adaptation. His work paved the way for future Jesuit missions and left a lasting legacy on both continents.
Notable Works
- De Christiana expeditione apud Sinas suscepta ab Societate Jesu (China in the Sixteenth Century: The Journals of Matthew Ricci: 1583-1610), written with Nicolas Trigault.
- Kunyu Wanguo Quantu (A Map of the Myriad Countries of the World), a world map created for the Chinese.
- Translation of Euclid's Elements into Chinese (with Xu Guangqi).
- Numerous other translations of religious and scientific texts.
De Christiana expeditione apud Sinas suscepta ab Societate Jesu Details
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Original Language | Latin |
| Publication Year | 1615 |
| Main Author | Matteo Ricci (posthumously, edited by Nicolas Trigault) |
| Genre | Missionary Account, Historical Narrative |
| Significance | Provides a detailed account of Ricci's experiences in China and his efforts to spread Christianity. A key historical resource for understanding Sino-European relations. |
This document represents a concise yet comprehensive 'fr matteo ricci biography', highlighting his key contributions and accomplishments.