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Saracinesca   By: (1854-1909)

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Saracinesca by F. Marion Crawford is a historical novel that paints a vivid picture of both nineteenth-century Italy and the complexities of human relationships. Set in the quaint town of Saracinesca, the story follows the lives of two aristocratic families, the Del Ferice and the d'Aragona, entangled in a web of love, betrayal, and political turmoil.

The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Giovanni, a member of the d'Aragona family and our primary protagonist. Crawford skillfully weaves together various plotlines, including a captivating love story between Giovanni and Corona d'Astrardente, a woman of exceptional beauty and charm. Their romance is filled with passion and obstacles, highlighting the constraints of social class, familial obligations, and the fickleness of human emotions.

The author's attention to detail is commendable, as he takes readers on a sensory journey through the picturesque landscapes of Italy. Crawford's vivid descriptions effortlessly transport us to the opulent palaces, bustling streets, and lush countryside, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the setting. Furthermore, his thorough research into Italy's eventful history adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

One of the book's strengths lies in its ability to explore social dynamics, particularly the rigid class structure prevalent in nineteenth-century Europe. The characters face constant scrutiny and judgment from their peers and society at large, resulting in a plethora of poignant and often hypocritical interactions. The author successfully captures the nuances of these social interactions, emphasizing the struggle between maintaining tradition and embracing change.

However, Saracinesca does have its flaws. At times, the pacing feels uneven, with certain sections dragging on while others rush through crucial events. Additionally, as the novel progresses, some plotlines and characters receive less attention, leaving readers craving more insight and closure.

Despite these minor drawbacks, Saracinesca offers a rich tapestry of human experiences, showcasing the entangled lives of its characters against a backdrop of a rapidly changing Italy. F. Marion Crawford's eloquent prose and meticulously crafted story weave together the threads of love, loyalty, and legacy, inviting readers to reflect on the complex nature of life itself.

Overall, Saracinesca is a captivating novel that seamlessly blends history, romance, and societal critique. It stands as a testament to Crawford's storytelling prowess and his ability to spin intricate tales that resonate with readers even after the final page has been turned.

First Page:

SARACINESCA

BY F. MARION CRAWFORD

AUTHOR OF 'MR. ISAACS,' 'DR. CLAUDIUS,' 'A ROMAN SINGER,' 'ZOROASTER,' 'A TALE OF A LONELY PARISH,' ETC.

1887

NOTE

It was at first feared that the name Saracinesca, as it is now printed, might be attached to an unused title in the possession of a Roman house. The name was therefore printed with an additional consonant Sarracinesca in the pages of 'Blackwood's Magazine.' After careful inquiry, the original spelling is now restored.

SARACINESCA.

CHAPTER I.

In the year 1865 Rome was still in a great measure its old self. It had not then acquired that modern air which is now beginning to pervade it. The Corso had not been widened and whitewashed; the Villa Aldobrandini had not been cut through to make the Via Nazionale; the south wing of the Palazzo Colonna still looked upon a narrow lane through which men hesitated to pass after dark; the Tiber's course had not then been corrected below the Farnesina; the Farnesina itself was but just under repair; the iron bridge at the Ripetta was not dreamed of; and the Prati di Castello were still, as their name implies, a series of waste meadows. At the southern extremity of the city, the space between the fountain of Moses and the newly erected railway station, running past the Baths of Diocletian, was still an exercising ground for the French cavalry... Continue reading book >>




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