Lucrezia Borgia secondo documenti e carteggi del tempo

by Ferdinand Gregorovius

"Lucrezia Borgia secondo documenti e carteggi del tempo" by Ferdinand Gregorovius is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The text explores the complex life of Lucrezia Borgia, understanding her role against the backdrop of her notorious family, including her father, Pope Alexander VI, and her brother, Cesare Borgia. The author aims to differentiate fact from legend, examining Lucrezia's life through original documents of the era. The opening of the book introduces the reader to the controversial figure of Lucrezia Borgia, highlighting the historical and legendary interpretations of her character. Gregorovius presents Lucrezia as both a product of her tumultuous family and a potential victim of historical misrepresentation. The discussion sets a critical tone, as he references earlier works that either vilified or defended her image, ultimately emphasizing the need for a thorough historical analysis to uncover the truth behind her life in a time characterized by political intrigue and moral ambiguity in Rome. The text promises an exploration of the Borgia family's influence and the societal conditions that shaped Lucrezia's identity.