Subject
Italy -- History -- 1268-1492 -- Fiction Books
Best books
Rafael Sabatini
Bellarion the Fortunate : $b a romance
"Bellarion the Fortunate: a romance by Rafael Sabatini" is a historical novel published in 1926. Set in early fifteenth-century Northern Italy, it follows Bellarion, an orphan raised in an abbey who sets out to study at university. A case of mistaken identity draws him into political intrigue surrounding Princess Valeria of Montferrat. After committing murder to protect her interests, Bellarion claims to be the son of a powerful mercenary captain—a lie that unexpectedly becomes truth. He rises through the ranks as a soldier of fortune, navigating treacherous plots while serving the princess.
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Valperga Volume 1 (of 3) or, The life and adventures of Castruccio, prince of Lucca
"Valperga Volume 1 (of 3)" by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a historical novel published in 1823. Set during medieval Italy's wars between Guelphs and Ghibellines, it follows the real fourteenth-century despot Castruccio Castracani as his armies threaten the fortress of Valperga. Countess Euthanasia, who governs the fortress and loves Castruccio, must choose between her feelings for him and political liberty. Through this medieval tale, Shelley explores questions of political power, republicanism, and the right to autonomy against imperial conquest.
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Valperga Volume 3 (of 3) or, The life and adventures of Castruccio, prince of Lucca
"Valperga Volume 3 (of 3)" by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a historical novel published in 1823. Set during the wars between Guelphs and Ghibellines in early fourteenth-century Italy, it follows the real historical figure Castruccio Castracani, a despot who becomes lord of Lucca. His conquests threaten the fortress of Valperga, ruled by Countess Euthanasia, the woman he loves. She must choose between her love for him and political liberty, highlighting themes of power, autonomy, and moral principles in post-Napoleonic Europe.
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Valperga Volume 2 (of 3) or, The life and adventures of Castruccio, prince of Lucca
"Valperga Volume 2 (of 3)" by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a historical novel published in 1823. Set during the wars between Guelphs and Ghibellines in fourteenth-century Italy, the story follows the real historical figure Castruccio Castracani, a despot who conquers territories including Florence. His ambitions threaten the fortress of Valperga, ruled by Countess Euthanasia, the woman he loves. She must choose between her devotion to him and her commitment to political liberty. Through medieval history, Shelley explores themes of imperialism, republicanism, and moral principle.
Rafael Sabatini
Ruhtinattaren ritari
"Ruhtinattaren ritari" by Rafael Sabatini is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around the character Bellarion Fortunato, a young man whose journey begins as he leaves a cloistered life for the uncertainty of the outside world, filled with both intellectual pursuits and the dangers of society. As the narrative unfolds, it explores Bellarion's philosophical musings, encounters with various characters, and the challenges he faces in a tumultuous political landscape. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Bellarion, a youth with a strong intellect, who has spent 17 years in a cloister and is now embarking on a journey to expand his knowledge. He is depicted as questioning the moral constructs of sin and virtue, engaging in discussions with a well-meaning but concerned abbott. As he leaves the quietude of his monastic life, Bellarion encounters diverse elements of society, including a humorous and somewhat dubious monk named fra Sulpizio. This interaction foreshadows the adventures and challenges he will face as he navigates a world filled with both intrigue and danger while trying to figure out his place in it. The opening sets the stage for a rich narrative that promises thrilling escapades intertwined with philosophical dialogues and moral dilemmas.
Recently surfaced classics