Sónnica By: Vicente Blasco Ibáñez (1867-1928)
Sónnica by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez is a captivating historical novel set in ancient Carthage. Blasco Ibáñez masterfully brings to life the intriguing story of a young woman named Sónnica, who finds herself caught between love, power, and her own ambitions. The novel skillfully delves into the complex relationships between Carthaginians and Romans during the turbulent times of the Punic Wars. Blasco Ibáñez's prose effortlessly transports the reader to the vibrant streets of Carthage, allowing us to witness the grandeur and decadence of its society. One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its well-developed characters. Sónnica, the protagonist, is a strong and fiercely independent woman who defies societal expectations. Her journey of self-discovery is thoughtfully portrayed, and readers will find themselves rooting for her throughout the narrative. Blasco Ibáñez presents a rich tapestry of supporting characters that further enhance the story. From powerful Roman generals to influential Carthaginian nobles, each character feels distinct and contributes to the overall narrative arc. The author expertly weaves historical figures into the plot, adding an authentic layer to the storytelling. The theme of love is intricately explored within the pages of Sónnica. This is not just the tale of romantic entanglements, but also a deeper exploration of the different forms of love, such as familial bonds and loyalty to one's city. The complex relationships and emotional entanglements between the characters provide a captivating backdrop to the political and military dramas of the time. Blasco Ibáñez's meticulous research is evident in every page of Sónnica. The historical context is vividly portrayed, painting a realistic picture of ancient Carthage, its customs, and its struggles. The author's attention to detail is commendable, and readers who enjoy historical fiction will appreciate the immersive experience. The pacing of the novel is balanced, allowing for the gradual development of the story and its characters. The plot unfolds seamlessly, combining elements of intrigue, romance, and political unrest. Although the narrative occasionally delves into more descriptive passages, they contribute to the overall atmosphere and authenticity of the setting. Sónnica is an engaging and beautifully written novel that captures the essence of ancient Carthage. Blasco Ibáñez's vivid storytelling and well-drawn characters make this a compelling read for lovers of historical fiction. The blend of history, romance, and political intrigue creates a captivating narrative that will leave readers immersed in the world of ancient Carthage long after the final page. First Page: SÓNNICA BY VICENTE BLASCO IBÁÑEZ Translated from the Spanish by FRANCES DOUGLAS [Illustration] NEW YORK DUFFIELD & COMPANY 1919 COPYRIGHT 1912 By DUFFIELD & COMPANY CONTENTS CHAPTER PAGE I. AT APHRODITE'S TEMPLE 3 II. SAGUNTUM 45 III. DANCING GIRLS FROM GADES 95 IV. GREEK AND CELTIBERIAN 143 V. INVASION 174 VI. ASBYTE AND HANNIBAL 200 VII. THE WALLS OF SAGUNTUM 234 VIII. THE ROME OF FABIUS THE DELAYER 258 IX. THE HUNGRY CITY 285 X. THE LAST NIGHT 311 SÓNNICA CHAPTER I AT APHRODITE'S TEMPLE. When the ship of Polyanthus, the Saguntine pilot, arrived off the port of his native land, the mariners and fishermen, their vision sharpened by ever watching the distant horizon, had already recognized his saffron dyed sail and the image of Victory, which, with extended wings, and holding a crown in her right hand, stretched along the prow until it dipped its feet in the waves. "It is Polyanthus' ship! It is the Victoriata returning from Gades and New Carthage!" To obtain a better view they rushed out upon the stone breakwater surrounding the three basins of the port of Saguntum, which were connected with the sea by a long canal... Continue reading book >>

Sónnica By: Vicente Blasco Ibáñez (1867-1928)

Sónnica by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez is a captivating historical novel set in ancient Carthage. Blasco Ibáñez masterfully brings to life the intriguing story of a young woman named Sónnica, who finds herself caught between love, power, and her own ambitions.

The novel skillfully delves into the complex relationships between Carthaginians and Romans during the turbulent times of the Punic Wars. Blasco Ibáñez's prose effortlessly transports the reader to the vibrant streets of Carthage, allowing us to witness the grandeur and decadence of its society.

One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its well-developed characters. Sónnica, the protagonist, is a strong and fiercely independent woman who defies societal expectations. Her journey of self-discovery is thoughtfully portrayed, and readers will find themselves rooting for her throughout the narrative.

Blasco Ibáñez presents a rich tapestry of supporting characters that further enhance the story. From powerful Roman generals to influential Carthaginian nobles, each character feels distinct and contributes to the overall narrative arc. The author expertly weaves historical figures into the plot, adding an authentic layer to the storytelling.

The theme of love is intricately explored within the pages of Sónnica. This is not just the tale of romantic entanglements, but also a deeper exploration of the different forms of love, such as familial bonds and loyalty to one's city. The complex relationships and emotional entanglements between the characters provide a captivating backdrop to the political and military dramas of the time.

Blasco Ibáñez's meticulous research is evident in every page of Sónnica. The historical context is vividly portrayed, painting a realistic picture of ancient Carthage, its customs, and its struggles. The author's attention to detail is commendable, and readers who enjoy historical fiction will appreciate the immersive experience.

The pacing of the novel is balanced, allowing for the gradual development of the story and its characters. The plot unfolds seamlessly, combining elements of intrigue, romance, and political unrest. Although the narrative occasionally delves into more descriptive passages, they contribute to the overall atmosphere and authenticity of the setting.

Sónnica is an engaging and beautifully written novel that captures the essence of ancient Carthage. Blasco Ibáñez's vivid storytelling and well-drawn characters make this a compelling read for lovers of historical fiction. The blend of history, romance, and political intrigue creates a captivating narrative that will leave readers immersed in the world of ancient Carthage long after the final page.

First Page:

SÓNNICA

VICENTE BLASCO IBÁÑEZ

Translated from the Spanish by FRANCES DOUGLAS

[Illustration]

NEW YORK DUFFIELD & COMPANY 1919

CONTENTS

CHAPTER PAGE

I. AT APHRODITE'S TEMPLE 3

II. SAGUNTUM 45

III. DANCING GIRLS FROM GADES 95

IV. GREEK AND CELTIBERIAN 143

V. INVASION 174

VI. ASBYTE AND HANNIBAL 200

VII. THE WALLS OF SAGUNTUM 234

VIII. THE ROME OF FABIUS THE DELAYER 258

IX. THE HUNGRY CITY 285

X. THE LAST NIGHT 311

SÓNNICA

CHAPTER I

AT APHRODITE'S TEMPLE.

When the ship of Polyanthus, the Saguntine pilot, arrived off the port of his native land, the mariners and fishermen, their vision sharpened by ever watching the distant horizon, had already recognized his saffron dyed sail and the image of Victory, which, with extended wings, and holding a crown in her right hand, stretched along the prow until it dipped its feet in the waves.

"It is Polyanthus' ship! It is the Victoriata returning from Gades and New Carthage!"

To obtain a better view they rushed out upon the stone breakwater surrounding the three basins of the port of Saguntum, which were connected with the sea by a long canal... Continue reading book >>

eBook links
Wikipedia – Vicente Blasco Ibáñez
Wikipedia – Sónnica

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