Errico Malatesta
Fra Contadini
"Fra Contadini" by Errico Malatesta is a dialogue-driven treatise advocating for anarchist socialism, likely written in the late 19th century. The text explores the injustices faced by the working class, presenting arguments for the redistribution of wealth and the establishment of a society based on collective ownership and cooperation, as articulated through the conversations between characters like Beppe and Giorgio. The opening of the work sets the stage for a rich discussion between Beppe, an elder, and Giorgio, a younger worker, about social injustices and revolutionary ideas. Beppe expresses concern for Giorgio’s involvement with radical groups, while Giorgio passionately argues that the current social system is built on exploitation. He emphasizes the necessity of the working class uniting to reclaim their rights and resources from the wealthy, advocating for the abolition of private property in favor of communal ownership. Their dialogue illustrates the struggle of the working class in understanding and challenging the status quo, as well as the hope for a more equitable future through collective action.