Little Novels of Sicily (Novelle Rusticane)

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First published in 1883, the stories in this collection are drawn from Giovanni Verga's childhood in Sicily, then reported as the poorest place in Europe. Verga's style is swift and economical, diving into narratives almost mid-breath, revealing a dark, tightly coiled core in each tale. His prose, deceptively simple, carries an ironic and bitter resolution that often catches readers off guard. Translator D. H. Lawrence likely resonated with Verga's depictions of Sicilian life, highlighting the class struggle between property owners and tenants, and the complex relationship between men and the land. Verga oscillates between affection and ironic detachment towards the superstitious, uneducated working poor, reserving his deepest pity for children and animals, who suffer the most in his narratives. The collection captures the wholeness of life, showcasing its spare exuberance and vibrant vitality. Critics praise the work for its artistic mastery, vividly bringing to life the Sicily of the 1860s, whether addressing the brutal aftermath of a failed revolution or the human comedy found even in mourning.