Subject
Palermo (Italy) -- Social life and customs Books
Best books
Giuseppe Pitrè
La vita in Palermo cento e più anni fa, Volume 1
"La vita in Palermo cento e più anni fa, Volume 1" by Giuseppe Pitrè is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book aims to capture and document the public and private life of various social classes in Palermo during the late 18th century, particularly focusing on the last two decades of that period. Through meticulous research, Pitrè delves into the customs, conditions, and transformations of Sicilian society, providing a detailed picture of a city undergoing significant change. The opening of the work establishes its author's intent to document the societal landscape of Palermo as it existed before it began to transform drastically. Pitrè outlines the political and economic state of Sicily during the latter half of the 1700s, described with vivid details about the hierarchical structure, cultural dynamics, and the tension between the nobility and the emerging middle class. He indicates that the changes brought by the French Revolution and local reforms in government and society have created an environment ripe for exploration, emphasizing the importance of capturing the essence of life at that time through references to archives, travelers' accounts, and local tradition. His approach combines both historical narrative and personal observation, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of Palermo's rich past.
Giuseppe Pitrè
La vita in Palermo cento e più anni fa, Volume 2
"La vita in Palermo cento e più anni fa, Volume 2" by Giuseppe Pitrè is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work presents a detailed exploration of the cultural, social, and religious practices in Palermo over a century ago, delving into the city's festivities and public spectacles. The focus lies on various significant events and customs that shaped daily life in the Sicilian capital. At the start of the text, the author introduces the vibrant and diverse celebrations that characterize life in Palermo, emphasizing the interplay between sacred and secular festivities. Key highlights include descriptions of Carnival parades filled with theatrical masks, important rites linked to local saints, and eventful public gatherings attended by various strata of society. Pitrè effectively captures the atmosphere of these events, illustrating the significance they held for the community and offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of traditions and cultural heritage prevalent in Palermo during that era.
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