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Cover of The conquest of Rome

The conquest of Rome

Written by Matilde Serao

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Man-woman relationshipsPolitical fictionRome (Italy)Italian fiction

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About this book

"The Conquest of Rome" by Matilde Serao is a novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative explores the journey of Francesco Sangiorgio, a newly elected deputy from a small province, as he travels to Rome, grappling with the weight of ambition, personal history, and the vibrant life of the city. The story unfolds against the backdrop of political and social dynamics of the time, intertwining the protagonist’s aspirations with a deeper critique of human emotions and societal structures. At the start of the novel, we meet Francesco Sangiorgio on a night train to Rome, reflecting on his past as a provincial lawyer and the challenges he faced in his ambitions to become a deputy. As he journeys through the countryside and the city, Sangiorgio experiences an amalgamation of emotions—from excitement about his new role to feelings of isolation and introspection. The opening chapters focus on his anticipation of Rome, a city he admires deeply yet knows only abstractly, and set the stage for his encounters with political life, societal expectations, and the struggles of self-identity within the complex fabric of a bustling metropolis.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The conquest of Rome, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • introspective
  • ambitious
  • melancholy

Matilde Serao's "The Conquest of Rome" chronicles the transformative journey of Francesco Sangiorgio, a newly elected provincial deputy, as he travels to and navigates the vibrant yet overwhelming capital. The novel delves into his profound introspection, grappling with the weight of ambition, his humble past, and the complex social and political dynamics of early 20th-century Rome. Through Sangiorgio's experiences, Serao crafts a psychological portrait of an individual confronting the gap between his idealized aspirations and the often isolating realities of power and urban life. It explores themes of identity, disillusionment, and the city itself as a formidable character, offering a critical lens on human emotions and societal structures.

“Rome was not merely a city; it was an aspiration, a vast, complex dream he had chased across the provinces.”

Key themes

Ambition and Disillusionment
This theme explores the driving force of Francesco Sangiorgio's ambition to become a deputy and the subsequent disillusionment he faces as he confronts the realities of political life and the grand city of Rome. It delves into the gap between idealized aspirations and the often-harsh, isolating truths of power and public service.
Identity and Self-Discovery
The novel deeply examines Sangiorgio's struggle to define and redefine his identity as he transitions from a provincial lawyer to a national deputy in Rome. It explores how a new environment, societal expectations, and personal ambition challenge his sense of self and force him into a process of introspection and self-discovery.
The City as a Character
Rome is not merely a backdrop but an active, almost sentient entity that profoundly influences Francesco Sangiorgio's experiences and psychological state. It embodies both the promise of ambition and the overwhelming indifference of a powerful metropolis, shaping his journey and challenging his perceptions.

Worth discussing

How does Serao use the journey to Rome to symbolize Francesco Sangiorgio's internal transformation?

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