Benedetto Varchi as etymologist

In the Ercolano (1570) Benedetto Varchi (1503–1565), an important figure in the linguistic controversies of the Cinquecento, provides etymologies for a significant number of Italian terms, the majority of which are ascribed to three sources: Latin, Latin deriving ultimately from Greek, and Provençal. Study of 233 such word origins from the perspective of modern theory shows Varchi’s general accuracy regarding Latin and Greek elements but an exaggeration of the lexical impact of Provençal. Furthermore, despite his own willingness to offer hypotheses, this philologist ridicules the search for derivations. Examination of certain facets of Varchi’s outlook sheds light on these contradictions. We find him concerned primarily with the language of elite groups. In addition, he employs ‘etymology’ in two different senses, and minimizes the significance of the individual word. An adherent of the Aristotelian ad placitum doctrine, Varchi has an imperfect understanding of sound change. His correctness regarding Classical etyma proceeds from a solid Humanistic preparation, while overestimation of Provençal influence may be associated with his reverence for the tenets of Pietro Bembo (1470–1547) and his obsession with the independence of the Italian vernacular. The Ercolano fails to specify possible sources for Varchi’s etymological views.