After the Divorce: A Romance

by Grazia Deledda

"After the Divorce: A Romance" by Grazia Deledda is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Giovanna Era, a young woman embroiled in sorrow after her husband, Costantino, is sentenced to prison for a crime he claims he did not commit. Set against a backdrop of traditional and social pressures, the narrative explores Giovanna's emotional turmoil and societal expectations following her husband's conviction. At the start of the novel, Giovanna is found in desperate grief, lamenting her husband's fate as he faces a potentially long prison term for the murder of his uncle. The opening scene depicts her in a dark room, overwhelmed with despair, while various family members attempt to console her. As the story unfolds, we meet a cast of characters including her supportive but practical mother, Aunt Bachissia, and the opportunistic student Paolo, who hints at the prospect of Giovanna finding freedom through divorce if her husband's sentence is upheld. The narrative captures the complexity of relationships, societal expectations, and the longing for love and justice as it delves into the emotional landscape of the characters.