ABSTRACT
This chapter explores a number of issues related to the making of secrets and remedies in early modern Rome and function of Italian books of secrets. It has three main aims. Firstly, the Italian recipe collections, known as Libri di secreti or Libri di ricette cannot be considered as having emerged from a female domain has been demonstrated for England and Spain. Secondly, the contrast to scholarship for England, people lacks the evidence to link the production of remedies with the average urban Italian household. Finally, to shift the perspective away from elite production and highlight instead the link between printed books of secrets and commercial practices. Regardless of the outcome of the trial, which Magdalena's arrest has left offers several points of entry into issues related to the compilation, circulation, making and meaning of secrets in early modern Italy. Magdalena's trial, casts doubt on whether the making of medicines was a viable or common domestic practice in Italy.
