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Romola

By George Eliot
Penguin Classics
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3.76 goodreads logo

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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Romola by George Eliot is set in 15th-century Florence and follows the life of the eponymous heroine, Romola de' Bardi. This historical novel explores themes of political upheaval, personal betrayal, and moral responsibility, as Romola navigates a world of intrigue while grappling with her own ideals and desires. The rich detail and complex characters provide a deeply immersive experience in Renaissance Italy.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're captivated by a blend of historical fiction and rich character studies set in Renaissance Florence. It offers a deep exploration of moral and philosophical themes while weaving intricate political and social dynamics into the personal journey of its protagonists. If you appreciate George Eliot's insightful and nuanced portrayal of human nature, this novel is likely to be a rewarding read.

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Although not among George Eliot's most admired works, this story is set in Florence at the end of the 15th century. It re-creates the picturesque complexion of the city and the characters of the historical figures, Charles VIII, Machiavelli and Savanorola.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

One of George Eliot's most ambitious and imaginative novels, Romola is set in Renaissance Florence during the turbulent years following the expulsion of the powerful Medici family, during which the zealous religious reformer Savonarola rose to control the city.

At its heart is Romola, the devoted daughter of a blind scholar, married to the clever but ultimately treacherous Tito. His duplicity in both love and politics threatens to destroy everything she values, leading Romola to find her own path in life.

Described by Eliot as "written with my best blood," the story of Romola's intellectual and spiritual awakening is a compelling portrayal of a Utopian heroine, played out against a turbulent historical backdrop.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Romola has been praised for its vivid portrayal of historical Florence, masterfully weaving the moral and political atmosphere of the period into its narrative. George Eliot's deep understanding of human nature and her insightful characterisation are often highlighted as strengths. This novel showcases her ability to blend rich historical context with profound philosophical themes.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780140434705

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 27 June 1996

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Classics

Contributors:

  • Edited by Dorothea Barrett
  • Introduction by Dorothea Barrett

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 468g

Pages: 688

Collections

Best Sellers at Book Hero Classic Fiction Classic General Fiction Fiction General Fiction George Eliot In Stock Books In-Stock Fiction Books Literary Fiction New Release Fiction Penguin Black Classics Penguin Books Penguin Classics Penguin Classics: General Fiction

About the Author

George Eliot (1819-1880), is the author of Adam Bede (1859), The Mill on the Floss (1860), Silas Mariner (1861) and Middlemarch (1872). Dorothea Barrett received her PhD in Literature from Cambridge University (UK). She has been teaching for NYU in Florence since the Fall 2001 and offers "Postmodern Fiction: International Perspective" and "Survey of Modern Italian Literature".

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