Subject
Americans -- Italy -- Fiction Books
Best books
Henry James
The Portrait of a Lady — Volume 1
"The Portrait of a Lady — Volume 1" by Henry James is a novel first published in 1880-81. It follows Isabel Archer, a spirited young American woman who inherits a fortune and travels to Europe seeking independence. There she encounters marriage proposals, complex expatriates, and ultimately makes a choice that leads to entrapment rather than freedom. The novel explores themes of personal liberty, responsibility, and betrayal as Isabel discovers that wealth and marriage have drawn her into a web of manipulation and unhappiness.
Henry James
The Portrait of a Lady — Volume 2
"The Portrait of a Lady — Volume 2" by Henry James is a novel first published in 1880-81. This second volume continues the story of spirited Isabel Archer, whose newfound inheritance and European adventures lead her into a disastrous marriage with the egotistical Gilbert Osmond. As Isabel discovers dark secrets about her husband's relationship with Madame Merle and confronts the manipulations that shaped her fate, she must wrestle with questions of freedom, duty, and whether to escape her gilded cage or honor her commitments.
Henry James
Roderick Hudson
"Roderick Hudson" by Henry James is a novel published in 1875. Wealthy Boston art patron Rowland Mallet discovers a talented young sculptor and sponsors his artistic education in Rome. But Rowland's generous act becomes complicated when he falls in love with the sculptor's fiancée. As Roderick's talent flourishes, he becomes entangled with Christina Light, a beautiful woman pursued by European nobility. Rowland must navigate his own suppressed desires while watching his protégé's life spiral toward crisis in Italy's artistic circles.
Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Marble Faun; Or, The Romance of Monte Beni - Volume 1
"The Marble Faun; Or, The Romance of Monte Beni - Volume 1" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a romance published in 1860. Set in a fantastical Italy, the story follows four characters: the mysterious painter Miriam, innocent copyist Hilda, rationalist sculptor Kenyon, and Donatello, a count who strangely resembles an ancient marble faun. As Miriam is pursued by a threatening figure from her past and Donatello's possible connection to mythical ancestry emerges, the narrative weaves together elements of fable, gothic mystery, and pastoral romance against an Italian backdrop.
Henry James
The Wings of the Dove, Volume 1 of 2
"The Wings of the Dove, Volume 1 of 2" by Henry James is a novel published in 1902. It follows Milly Theale, a wealthy young American heiress facing a fatal illness, and the people drawn into her orbit. Among them are Kate Croy and Merton Densher, two Londoners desperate to marry but lacking money. As Milly's health deteriorates, a complex plan emerges that will test the boundaries of love, morality, and self-interest. What begins in London culminates in Venice, where hidden motives and concealed engagements unravel with devastating consequences.
Nathaniel Hawthorne
The Marble Faun; Or, The Romance of Monte Beni - Volume 2
"The Marble Faun; Or, The Romance of Monte Beni - Volume 2" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a romance published in 1860. Set in a fantastical Italy, the story follows four characters entangled in mystery and moral complexity: Miriam, a beautiful painter with a dark past; innocent copyist Hilda; rational sculptor Kenyon; and Donatello, who bears an uncanny resemblance to an ancient marble faun. As secrets unfold and boundaries blur between art and life, the novel weaves gothic intrigue with questions of innocence, guilt, and transformation.
William Dean Howells
Ragged Lady — Complete
"Ragged Lady — Complete" by William Dean Howells is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story unfolds in a rural New England setting, focusing on the lives of the Landers, a couple who navigate their summer in a new locale while interacting with the local inhabitants, notably the Claxon family. The interactions reveal themes of class, society, and human connection as the characters explore their lives, desires, and social roles. At the start of the novel, we meet the Landers, who are unfamiliar with their surroundings at Middlemount and encounter a young girl named Clementina Claxon while seeking directions. The amusing and awkward exchanges between Mrs. Lander and Clementina, coupled with a hint of admiration from Mr. Lander, set the stage for their growing interest in the Claxon family. Mrs. Lander's curiosity about the Claxons leads to a deeper exploration of their lives, highlighting their struggles and dreams. The opening portion establishes a rich backdrop of character dynamics, promising an exploration of social class and personal relationships as the narrative unfolds.
William Dean Howells
Indian Summer
"Indian Summer" by William Dean Howells is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story focuses on the character Colville, a disillusioned journalist who finds himself in Florence, grappling with the dissatisfaction of his past life in America and contemplating a fresh start away from the disappointments he has faced. At the start of the novel, Colville is introduced as he lounges by the Ponte Vecchio, reflecting on his life choices and the bitter disappointment he experienced upon leaving his successful newspaper career in Des Vaches, Indiana. As he immerses himself in the vibrant yet familiar sights of Florence, he feels an acute sense of loss for the life he abandoned, despite having returned to pursue art and architecture. The narrative takes a turn when he encounters Mrs. Bowen, an old acquaintance, and her daughter Effie, which reignites memories of his past and opens the door to new social interactions, marking the beginning of his exploration of identity, nostalgia, and the complexities of human connections in a foreign land.
Booth Tarkington
His Own People
"His Own People" by Booth Tarkington is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story centers on Robert Russ Mellin, a young man from a small town who is eager to immerse himself in the glamorous world of European society, particularly the elite culture of Rome. As he navigates this new environment, he experiences the allure and deception inherent in high society. At the start of the novel, Mellin is captivated by a vibrant scene in the Grand Continental Hotel's palm-room where he observes the distinguished guests. Overwhelmed by joy, he considers himself among "his own people," having yearned for such encounters since his youth. Initially filled with hopeful romantic notions, he encounters Madame de Vaurigard—a charismatic countess who further ignites his fascination with this life of elegance. Through a series of encounters and observations, Mellin's idealism clashes with the reality of social dynamics, foreshadowing a journey into the complexities of identity, ambition, and the potential for betrayal in his quest for acceptance within this new society.
Mary Murdoch Mason
Mae Madden
"Mae Madden" by Mary Murdoch Mason is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story follows the life and experiences of Mae Madden, a spirited and impulsive young woman, as she travels through Italy with her family and friends, encountering various adventures and romantic entanglements along the way. The narrative delves into themes of youth, freedom, and the complexities of love and society, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Italian landscapes. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mae Madden aboard an ocean steamer, where her emotions and reflections on leaving home emerge. A conversation with her fellow travelers, including her brothers and a potential love interest, reveals Mae's vibrant personality and her desire for both fun and adventure. The opening chapters set the stage for Mae's journey as she expresses a longing for excitement, depicts her playful banter with her companions, and hints at her struggles between societal expectations and personal desires. As they arrive in famous Italian cities, Mae's curiosity and spirited nature promise a captivating exploration of the cultural and social dynamics of their travels.
Jean Webster
The Wheat Princess
"The Wheat Princess" by Jean Webster is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around an American family, the Copleys, and their experiences as they spend a summer in an Italian villa, highlighting themes of wealth, privilege, and social responsibility. The main character, Marcia Copley, is introduced as the charming and spirited daughter of a millionaire wheat magnate, navigating her new life amidst the historical and picturesque backdrop of Castel Vivalanti. At the start of the story, we find Marcia and her aunt arriving at a tea gathering, where she is referred to as "the Wheat Princess" due to her family background. The discussions among the guests reveal the social dynamics and perceptions surrounding Marcia, especially in relation to her wealth and potential marriage prospects. We learn about her family's philanthropic efforts leads to mixed feelings among the attendees. The dialogue vividly sets the stage for the contrast between the Copleys' American millionaire lifestyle and the traditional Italian society they are entering, all while hinting at the complexities of identity, cultural expectations, and personal aspirations that are to unfold as Marcia adapts to her new environment.
Katharine Haviland-Taylor
A modern trio in an old town
"A Modern Trio in an Old Town" by Katharine Haviland Taylor is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows Jane Jones, an 18-year-old girl from Pennsylvania, as she embarks on a life-changing journey to Florence, Italy, to study piano with the renowned teacher, Signor Michele Paggi. Along the way, she navigates cultural differences, forms new friendships, and experiences the daunting yet exciting world of an artist's life abroad. At the start of the narrative, Jane reflects on her fears and apprehensions about moving to a foreign country, particularly when a key adult chaperone decides to abandon her. While traveling by ship, Jane meets Mr. Terrance Wake, who offers to help her once they reach Florence, easing some of her anxieties. Upon their arrival in Genoa, she experiences the vibrant local life and the sights of Italy, which captivates her. Upon reaching the Pension Dante in Florence, she learns that her old friend, Leslie Parrish, and her friend Viola Harris-Clarke, have arrived as well, bringing new dynamics and tensions into Jane's life as she embarks on her new adventure of music and self-discovery.
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