Byron and Italy

The winner of the Elma Dangerfield Prize 2018 is Byron in Italy – Venetian debauchery, Roman sight-seeing, revolution, horse-riding and swimming, sword-brandishing and pistol-shooting, the poets 'last attachment – is part of the fabric of Romantic mythology. Byron scholars from Britain, Europe, and beyond re-assess the topic, considering Byron's relationship to Italian literature, people, geography, art, religion, and politics, and discussing his navigations between British and Italian identities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 18 February 2020
Publisher: Manchester University Press

Winner of the Elma Dangerfield Prize 2018, Byron in Italy encompasses a vibrant tapestry of experiences, from the debauchery of Venetian society to the Roman ruins, the revolutionary fervor, the exhilaration of horse-riding and swimming, the dramatic displays of sword-brandishing and pistol-shooting, and the poet's final attachment to the country. While these aspects have become integral to the fabric of Romantic mythology, Byron's time in Italy played a pivotal role in shaping his development as a writer, as well as the identity of Italy as a nation, the perception of national identity in Europe, and the evolution of Romanticism across the continent. In this comprehensive volume, Byron scholars from Britain, Europe, and beyond delve into the multifaceted topic of Byron and Italy, exploring his intricate relationships with Italian literature, people, geography, art, religion, and politics. They examine his navigation between British and Italian identities, shedding light on the complexities and nuances of his cultural and artistic journey.

Byron's encounter with Italian culture was a transformative experience that left a lasting imprint on his artistic output. His fascination with Italian literature, language, and history deepened his understanding of human nature and inspired his poetic genius. He forged close connections with prominent Italian figures, including the poet and politician Giuseppe Mazzini, who became a lifelong friend and mentor. Byron's travels through Italy, particularly in the regions of Tuscany and Venice, provided him with a rich source of inspiration for his writings. The landscapes, architecture, and cultural traditions of the country captivated his imagination, and he incorporated them into his poems and prose with vivid detail and emotional resonance.

Beyond his literary contributions, Byron's time in Italy had a profound impact on the country's sense of identity and national pride. His admiration for Italian culture and his support for political reform movements resonated with the Italian people, who saw him as a symbol of their cultural heritage and a champion of their aspirations for democracy and freedom. Byron's presence in Italy also contributed to the broader European perception of national identity. His romanticized portrayal of Italy as a land of passion, beauty, and cultural richness influenced the development of Romanticism in other parts of Europe, particularly in Germany and France.

However, Byron's time in Italy was not without its challenges and complexities. He faced criticism and controversy for his unconventional behavior and political views, which often clashed with the conservative values of the Italian society of his time. He also struggled with his own personal demons, including his addiction to opium and his complicated relationships with women. Despite these challenges, Byron's legacy in Italy remains profound, and his influence can be seen in the country's literature, art, and cultural heritage to this day.

In conclusion, Byron in Italy represents a captivating chapter in the life and work of one of the greatest poets of the Romantic era. His time in Italy not only shaped his development as a writer but also had a profound impact on the identity of Italy as a nation, the perception of national identity in Europe, and the evolution of Romanticism across the continent. Byron's legacy continues to inspire and influence artists, writers, and cultural enthusiasts worldwide, and his influence will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

Weight: 362g
Dimension: 140 x 218 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526143525