Lorenzo Scupoli (c.1530-1610) was born in Otranto, Italy. He was admitted to the religious order of the Theatine Regular Clerks of St. Cajetan in 1571, and by his desire was called Lorenzo of Otranto. He later went to Milan, under the provost St. Andrew Avellino. After many years of active duties he retired into strict seclusion and wrote The Spiritual Combat.