Why is it believed that both Casanova and Cagliostro can be found in every Italian man?

Italians cling to illusions such as those exhibited by Casanova and Cagliostro because real life is too brutal and ugly to be endured without pretense. Italians believe that newborn babies are surrounded by bad and powerful genii (evil spirits) destined to make the life of every Italian miserable. Therefore, it is necessary for each Italian to ward off the presence and the effects of these spirits as best he can.