Play Book Tag discussion

The Leopard by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa - 4* - My Review

Published in 1958, this novel is a character study of Don Fabrizio, an Italian prince, nicknamed the Leopard for his family’s crest. He deals with the changing times in 1860s Sicily. It is a story of the downfall of the aristocracy in the time of Italian unification, which Don Fabrizio and his peers are ill-equipped to handle. It is difficult for him to adjust to the changes, and he starts selling off land to fund the continuation of his lifestyle. We also hear his nephew’s story, indicating the differences in the generations, with the younger having more flexibility (though not the means) to weather the changes.

It is slow in developing, providing a depth of detail that establishes the foundation for the storyline. It eventually ramps up to include a series of dramatic set pieces. The writing is richly descriptive and atmospheric, providing a glimpse of a bygone era. It is historical fiction based on real events and people. It is the story of tumultuous change from both a personal and societal perspective. This book is considered a classic. I would not call it riveting, but I am glad I took the time to read it.