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A review by whippycleric
The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
This is a really pleasant book to read. I imagine with a deeper knowledge of Sicilian culture and history, or Italy in general, I would have enjoyed it even more, but even without this it's enjoyable.
The book covers what is effectively the last generation of a noble family, whilst there may be future generations of family members this is the last true generation with regards to the traditions, culture and way of life for this family. The protagonist is very likeable and seems to take the downfall in his stride and recognizes the need for change whilst still trying to retain what he see's as the most valuable aspects of his heritage. The final chapter set towards the end of the lives of the younger members of the family really shows the final shift and end of it all beautifully.
I'm reading a translation, but it's still beautiful prose and I can only imagine it's even better in Italian. I always enjoy reading classics from other countries and find it gives you a nice insight into the history of a place. It's a high 3.5 to be sure, and could go higher on a re read after gaining some more historical knowledge.
The book covers what is effectively the last generation of a noble family, whilst there may be future generations of family members this is the last true generation with regards to the traditions, culture and way of life for this family. The protagonist is very likeable and seems to take the downfall in his stride and recognizes the need for change whilst still trying to retain what he see's as the most valuable aspects of his heritage. The final chapter set towards the end of the lives of the younger members of the family really shows the final shift and end of it all beautifully.
I'm reading a translation, but it's still beautiful prose and I can only imagine it's even better in Italian. I always enjoy reading classics from other countries and find it gives you a nice insight into the history of a place. It's a high 3.5 to be sure, and could go higher on a re read after gaining some more historical knowledge.