L'undecimo comandamento: Romanzo

by Anton Giulio Barrili

"L'undecimo comandamento: Romanzo" by Anton Giulio Barrili is a novel written in the late 19th century. Set in a fictional Italian town, the story revolves around the intricacies of local administrative life as experienced by the under-prefect, Cavaliere Tiraquelli, and his intriguing social gatherings. The narrative appears to delve into themes of ambition, societal roles, and the intersection between personal desires and societal expectations. At the start of the novel, the narrator introduces the setting in Castelnuovo, hinting at its significance while deliberately leaving some details vague for the sake of personal safety. The under-prefect, Tiraquelli, is characterized as an intelligent man yearning for promotion and recognition, expressing concern over the frustrations of his wife, who longs for their improvement in status. The bustling life around their social Wednesdays reveals local politicians, potential alliances, and societal dynamics, emphasizing the blend of personal ambition and public service. Meanwhile, the arrival of new characters, including a young duke and discussions about the town's enigmatic convent, hint at upcoming tensions and relationships that may influence the unfolding plot.