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Alessandro ManzoniItalian writer
Date of Birth: 07.03.1785
Country:  Italy |
Content:
Biography of Alessandro Manzoni
Alessandro Manzoni was an Italian writer who was born on March 7, 1785 in Milan. He was a devout Catholic who held liberal beliefs. His early poems, especially religious hymns, are included in all Italian anthologies, and his critical works, particularly on linguistic and religious themes, remain in cultural circulation. However, he is best known as the author of the historical novel "The Betrothed" (I Promessi Sposi).
Works and Recognition
Manzoni's less successful tragedies in verse, "Count Carmagnola" (Il Conte di Carmagnola, 1820) and "Adelchi" (1822), are overshadowed by the success of "The Betrothed". The novel was first published in 1827, but the definitive edition with numerous changes and revisions was released in 1840-1842.
Formally, Manzoni's novel follows the romantic tradition of historical novels, but in essence, it has very little in common with Walter Scott. Manzoni's approach to portraying events is more realistic than romantic. The novel features dozens of characters, including nobles, priests, inquisitors, innkeepers, and poor craftsmen. Even the most insignificant of them are vividly depicted with some expressive detail. Overall, the novel provides a broad panorama of life in 17th century Italy.
Later Life and Legacy
Towards the end of his life, Manzoni became a national symbol, although he lived a secluded life in Milan and his estate nearby. Shy and nervous by nature, he did not play a significant role in the Italian Risorgimento, although he sympathized with its goals. In the end, Manzoni was revered, and after his death on May 22, 1873, the government arranged a state funeral for him. Giuseppe Verdi dedicated his Requiem to Manzoni.
