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Colomba   By: (1803-1870)

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Colomba by Prosper Mérimée is a riveting tale set in Corsica during the early 19th century. The story follows Colomba, a young and determined woman driven by a deep sense of honor and justice.

The novel starts with the arrival of Orso della Rebbia, Colomba's brother, who has returned to Corsica after serving in the French army. Orso is haunted by a dark secret, involving a blood feud between his family and the rival della Rocca clan. As the plot unfolds, the complex web of vendettas, power struggles, and loyalty emerges.

Mérimée skillfully portrays the intricate dynamics of Corsican society, exploring the themes of honor, revenge, and the clash between tradition and modernity. Through Colomba's character, the author showcases the fierce determination and cunning nature of the Corsican people. Colomba's determination to avenge her family and restore their honor is unwavering and relentless.

The narrative is beautifully descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the rugged Corsican landscape, its traditions, and the deep-seated cultural values that influence the characters' actions. Mérimée's prose is rich and evocative, capturing the reader's attention from the very beginning.

One of the highlights of the novel is the compelling character development. Colomba, in particular, is a multi-dimensional character with a strong moral compass and a fierce sense of justice. Despite her admirable traits, she struggles with the moral complexities that come with seeking vengeance. This internal conflict adds depth and complexity to her character, making her all the more relatable.

The pacing of the story is well-executed, with suspense and tension escalating steadily as the plot unfolds. The interactions between the characters are filled with intrigue, as alliances shift, and loyalties are tested. Mérimée artfully keeps the reader guessing until the very end, leaving them eager to unravel the mysteries that surround the protagonists.

Colomba is an enthralling novel that delves into the depths of human nature and explores the destructive power of vendettas. Mérimée's masterful storytelling, compelling characters, and captivating setting make it a must-read for lovers of historical fiction and thrillers alike.

First Page:

COLOMBA

By Prosper Merimee

Translated By The Lady Mary Loyd

CHAPTER I

"Pe far la to vendetta, Sta sigur', vasta anche ella."

Vocero du Niolo.

Early in the month of October, 181 , Colonel Sir Thomas Nevil, a distinguished Irish officer of the English army, alighted with his daughter at the Hotel Beauveau, Marseilles, on their return from a tour in Italy. The perpetual and universal admiration of enthusiastic travellers has produced a sort of reaction, and many tourists, in their desire to appear singular, now take the nil admirari of Horace for their motto. To this dissatisfied class the colonel's only daughter, Miss Lydia, belonged. "The Transfiguration" has seemed to her mediocre, and Vesuvius in eruption an effect not greatly superior to that produced by the Birmingham factory chimneys. Her great objection to Italy, on the whole, was its lack of local colour and character. My readers must discover the sense of these expressions as best they may. A few years ago I understood them very well myself, but at the present time I can make nothing of them. At first, Miss Lydia had flattered herself she had found things on the other side of the Alps which nobody had ever before seen, about which she could converse avec les honnetes gens , as M. Jourdain calls them... Continue reading book >>




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