A thirst for revenge, bloodstained daggers, lethal poisons, and countless adventures dominate this book, showcasing a timeless creator who explored themes of high drama to vividly present the vision of the most passionate life.

Stendhal, a leading representative of realism in the 19th century, penetrated with unparalleled insight into the psychology of his heroes. The backdrop against which the narratives of this collection unfold is an idealized version of Italy, which for him remained untouched by the moral restraints and conformism of the bourgeoisie.

From the suffocating atmosphere of aristocratic monasteries to the atrocities of the Cenci family, in Italian chronicles we observe people who are passionate, unrestrained, and dedicated to the so-called pursuit of happiness. Violent and tragic stories, most inspired by real events, with Stendhal using the past as a canvas to examine the extreme behaviors of his characters, their struggle against literal and metaphorical oppression, and their attempts to conquer freedom.

“In Italy, therefore, only in the sixteenth century could this strange character appear for the first time. Only in Italy and in the seventeenth century did a princess say, while eating a delightful ice cream on a very hot day: What a pity it is not a sin!”

“— What’s happening again? the women shouted. — It is cowardice and shame, they replied, to kill a poor old man who is sleeping! Pity prevented us from doing so. Hearing this excuse, Beatrice was overcome with indignation and began to curse them, saying: — Well, what kind of men are you who, although you prepared for this act, do not have the courage to kill someone who is sleeping! If he were awake, you would dare even less to look him in the face! You dare to take money and act like this! Well! since your cowardice requires it, I will kill my father, and as for you, you won’t live much longer!”