I promessi sposi
by Alessandro Manzoni
Italian • Public Domain • Free to stream
Alessandro Manzoni's I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed, 1827) is the greatest Italian novel and a cornerstone of Italian national culture. Set in 17th-century Lombardy, it tells the story of two young peasants, Renzo and Lucia, whose planned wedding is blocked by the tyrannical nobleman Don Rodrigo. A sweeping historical novel of faith, oppression, plague, and enduring love. Stream free in native Italian.
About the book: I promessi sposi
Alessandro Manzoni found the basis for his novel in late April 1821 when he read a 1627 Italian edict specifying penalties for any priest who refused to perform a marriage. The first version was written between April 1821 and September 1823. After heavy revision, the novel was first published in three volumes between 1825 and 1827. It was significantly revised and rewritten until the definitive version was published between 1840 and 1842.
Set in the Duchy of Milan in 1628 during the years of Spanish rule, the novel portrays the unwavering strength of love through the relationship between Renzo and Lucia and their struggle to finally meet again and be married. It deals with a variety of themes, such as the illusory nature of political power, the inherent injustice of any legal system, and the range of character among the Christian clergy. It has been called the most famous and widely read novel in the Italian language.
Manzoni was firmly in favour of the dialect of Florence and revised the novel's language for its republication in 1842, cleansing it of many Lombard regionalisms after washing his clothes in the Arno. The original name of one of the protagonists, Fermo, was changed for the same reason to Lorenzo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is I promessi sposi free to listen to?
Yes, I promessi sposi is completely free to stream. No account, no subscription, and no ads required. It is in the public domain.
Who wrote I promessi sposi?
I promessi sposi was written by Alessandro Manzoni.
Is I promessi sposi in the public domain?
Yes, I promessi sposi by Alessandro Manzoni is in the public domain and free to read, share, and listen to worldwide.
How long is I promessi sposi to listen to?
I promessi sposi takes approximately 18 hours to listen to in full.
When was I promessi sposi written?
I promessi sposi was first published in 1827. It is now in the public domain and free to stream.
Who narrates I promessi sposi?
I promessi sposi uses AI multi-voice narration. Each character has a distinct voice — narrators, heroes, villains and supporting characters all sound different, making it easy to follow the story.
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What genre is I promessi sposi?
I promessi sposi is classic literature. It is a classic work of literature now in the public domain.