Subject
Florence (Italy) -- Fiction Books
Best books
E. M. (Edward Morgan) Forster
A Room with a View
"A Room with a View" by E. M. Forster is a novel published in 1908. Young Lucy Honeychurch travels to Italy with her uptight cousin as chaperone, where an unexpected encounter with the unconventional George Emerson stirs confusing emotions. Back in England, Lucy becomes engaged to the sophisticated but pompous Cecil Vyse. When the Emersons move nearby, Lucy must confront her true feelings and decide between societal expectations and genuine passion in Edwardian England's restrained culture.
D. H. (David Herbert) Lawrence
Aaron's Rod
"Aaron's Rod" by D. H. Lawrence is a picaresque novel written between 1918 and 1921 and published in 1922. The story follows Aaron Sisson, a coal miner and talented flautist who abandons his family in England's Midlands to pursue his dream of becoming a professional musician in Italy. There he befriends a writer named Rawdon Lilly, enters Florence's intellectual circles, and engages in debates about politics and leadership while pursuing an affair with an aristocrat. The novel culminates with an explosive event that destroys Aaron's flute.
George Eliot
Romola
"Romola" by George Eliot is a historical novel written between 1862 and 1863. Set in 1490s Florence during the Italian Renaissance, it follows the scholarly Romola de' Bardi and her marriage to Tito Melema, a charismatic Greek scholar with dangerous secrets. As political upheaval sweeps through Florence under Savonarola's religious fervor, Romola must navigate betrayal, moral awakening, and the collision between personal loyalty and civic duty in a city torn by war, famine, and spiritual revolution.
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.
Maturin M. (Maturin Murray) Ballou
The Duke's Prize; a Story of Art and Heart in Florence
"The Duke's Prize; a Story of Art and Heart in Florence" by Maturin M. Ballou is a historical novel set in Italy, likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative introduces readers to a world rich in artistic aspiration, namely that of Carlton, a struggling American artist hoping to win the favor of the Grand Duke through his painting, while simultaneously professing his love for Florinda, a beautiful heiress ensconced within the aristocracy of Florence. At the start of the story, we are transported to beautiful Florence, where artists from various nations congregate, showcasing their talents and vying for recognition, particularly amidst the grandeur of the Grand Duke's court. Carlton, distinguished yet impoverished, is contrasted with Florinda, who has just returned from a convent and possesses immense wealth and noble birth. Their burgeoning romance faces challenges due to societal expectations and the ambitions of Florinda's ambitious uncle, whose schemes threaten their union. The early chapters present a picturesque setting dotted with themes of love, ambition, and the trials of aspiring artists, setting the stage for the conflict that will unfold as Carlton strives to prove himself worthy in a world governed by pride and wealth.
William Congreve
Incognita; Or, Love and Duty Reconcil'd
"Incognita; Or, Love and Duty Reconcil'd" by William Congreve is a novel written in the late 17th century, during the Restoration era. The novel explores the themes of love and duty through the intertwining lives of its main characters, Aurelian and Hippolito, who are caught in a complex web of romance and obligation as they navigate youthful relationships in Florence. The opening portion of the novel introduces the backdrop of Florence, highlighting the lavish preparations for an upcoming wedding. It establishes Aurelian as a well-educated young gentleman and gives insight into his close friendship with Hippolito, a Spanish nobleman. Their anticipation for the forthcoming festivities sets the tone for their adventures. As they arrive in Florence, they seek to immerse themselves in the excitement of the city, with plans to partake in balls and masquerades. The narrative intertwines their longing for love with the societal expectations of marriage, creating an undercurrent of tension as they both engage with mysterious ladies who captivate their hearts while grappling with familial pressures and personal desires.
George Lippard
The Mysteries of Florence
"The Mysteries of Florence" by George Lippard is a historical novel written in the mid-19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of Florence and revolves around the castle of Albarone and its inhabitants, particularly the sick Count Julian, his son Adrian, and the enigmatic scholar Aldarin. The titular mysteries encompass dark family secrets, potential murder, and a web of intrigue that binds the characters together. The opening of the novel introduces readers to a picturesque yet haunting setting—an ancient castle overlooking the valley of Florence under a moonlit sky. The narrative establishes a sense of foreboding as a weary traveler reflects on the grandeur and tragedies of the castle of Albarone. As we transition into the story, we meet Robin, a rough soldier lamenting the lack of merriment in the castle, along with the jovial page Guiseppo, who hints at significant transformations in the lineage of Albarone. Tension builds with the introduction of Aldarin, who holds sway over the ailing Count Julian, further hinting at hidden motives and dark prophecies associated with a signet ring. This sets the stage for a convoluted tale of betrayal, love, and the quest for power, as familial relationships intertwine under the shadows of their ancestral home.
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