Daphne: An Autumn Pastoral

"Daphne: An Autumn Pastoral" by Margaret Pollock Sherwood is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story focuses on a young American woman named Daphne Willis who finds herself in Italy, navigating a new landscape rich with beauty and complex emotions, while trying to communicate with the local Italian peasants. At the start of the novel, Daphne is seen attempting to converse with Giacomo, the villa’s butler, and Assunta, his wife, through her limited Italian vocabulary. As she explores the stunning hills and valleys surrounding the Villa Accolanti, she becomes enchanted by the beauty of the Italian countryside. The narrative establishes her initial solitude and the challenges she faces with language barriers, while hinting at a deeper emotional journey that she will undertake as she interacts with the land, its inhabitants, and perhaps even a mysterious shepherd who seems more than merely human. The beginning effectively sets the stage for an exploration of identity, culture clash, and the quest for belonging in a richly evocative setting.