The Betrothed: From the Italian of Alessandro Manzoni: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The Betrothed: From the Italian of Alessandro Manzoni: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

The Betrothed: From the Italian of Alessandro Manzoni is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Manzoni, Alessandro (1785–1873).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Betrothed" by Alessandro Manzoni is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The narrative centers on two lovers, Renzo Tramaglino and Lucia Mondella, who become entangled in a web of social and personal conflicts that threaten their betrothal. Against the backdrop of 17th-century Italy, the story explores themes of love, tyranny, faith, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a corrupt society. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Don Abbondio, a timid and cowardly curate who is confronted by two intimidating bravoes. They threaten him to prevent the marriage of Renzo and Lucia, revealing the dangerous power dynamics in their society. The narrative provides rich descriptions of the setting around Lake Como and highlights Don Abbondio's internal fears and helplessness in the face of external threats. As he seeks solace in his home, the stage is set for the struggles that Renzo and Lucia will face as they attempt to navigate love amidst societal corruption and oppression. The opening lays a foundation for the dramatic developments to come, establishing a sense of urgency and the complexities of human relations in a turbulent historical context.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The Betrothed: From the Italian of Alessandro Manzoni
- Author credits: Manzoni, Alessandro (1785–1873)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Historical fiction
- Italian fiction -- Translations into English
- Italy -- History -- 1559-1789 -- Fiction
- Milan (Italy) -- Fiction
- Plague -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Historical Novels
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Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.


