Ghisolabella

Ghisolabella Caccianemico (Bologna, c. 13th century CE), also known as Ghislabella or Ghisolabella dei Caccianemici, was a noblewoman from a prominent Guelph family from Bologna. She was married to Niccolò dei Fontana, a nobleman from Ferrara, but she is primarily known for having been sold into prostitution to Obizzo II d'Este, Marquis of Ferrara by her brother, Venedico Caccianemico. Ghisolabella's story was famously included by Dante Alighieri in his poem, the Divine Comedy.

Biography Ghisolabella was born into a noble family of the Guelph political faction of Bologna, the Caccianemico. Ghisolabella's exact date of birth is unknown, but her brother, Venedico, was likely born in 1228; thus, it is possible that she was also born around this time. It is suspected that Venedico's motive was to attempt to gain political favor from the marquis.

There has been much scholarly discussion on Dante's portrayal and treatment of women in the Divine Comedy. D'Annunzio was also in love with his muse, Eleanora Duse, and often referred to her using the nickname, "Ghìsola." This nickname, along with other variations on the name, such as "Ghixolabella" and "Ghislabella," have been used to indicate a beautiful woman.