Umberto Eco

Date of Birth: January 5, 1932

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: February 19, 2016

Biography

Umberto Eco was an Italian novelist, literary critic, philosopher, semiotician, and university professor. Born on January 5, 1932, in Alessandria, Italy, Eco gained worldwide fame with his best-selling novel “The Name of the Rose,” published in 1980. The novel, a historical mystery combining semiotics, literary theory, medieval studies, and biblical analysis, was later adapted into a successful film starring Sean Connery. Eco’s work extends beyond fiction into non-fiction, where he made significant contributions to the fields of semiotics, aesthetics, and medieval studies. Eco held various academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Bologna, where he taught semiotics. His other notable works include “Foucault’s Pendulum,” “The Island of the Day Before,” and essays such as “Travels in Hyperreality.” Eco’s writing is renowned for its intricate plots, erudite references, and deep philosophical themes. Eco passed away on February 19, 2016, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential intellectuals of the 20th and 21st centuries.

5 Interesting Facts about Umberto Eco

1. Umberto Eco was originally trained as a medievalist and philosopher.

2. He coined the term “semiotics,” which is the study of signs and symbols and their use or interpretation.

3. Eco’s personal library contained over 30,000 books, showcasing his wide-ranging interests and intellectual curiosity.

4. He was a recipient of numerous honorary doctorates from universities around the world.

5. Eco’s novel “The Name of the Rose” has been translated into more than 40 languages and sold millions of copies globally.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Umberto Eco

1. “We live for books.”

2. “To survive, you must tell stories.”

3. “The real hero is always a hero by mistake; he dreams of being an honest coward like everybody else.”

4. “Nothing gives a fearful man more courage than another’s fear.”

5. “Books are not made to be believed, but to be subjected to inquiry.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Umberto Eco’s net worth was estimated to be around $30 million, largely due to the international success of his books and their adaptations.

Children

Umberto Eco had two children: a son, Stefano Eco, and a daughter, Carlotta Eco. Stefano is known for his work as a journalist and writer, while Carlotta has largely stayed out of the public eye.