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Cover of Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten

Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten

Written by Marie Corelli

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About this book

"Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten" by Marie Corelli is a novel written in the late 19th century that explores themes of love, betrayal, and vengeance. The story is narrated by Fabio Romani, a man who, despite being declared dead during a cholera outbreak in Naples, is very much alive. His experiences lead him through a harrowing journey as he grapples with the complexities of his relationships, particularly with his wife Nina and his closest friend, Guido Ferrari. At the start of the book, we find Fabio in a reflective state, describing his life and the surreal circumstances that have led to his current situation. He reveals his wealth and comfortable existence, but the façade begins to crumble as he recounts his encounter with beautiful yet enigmatic women, the passionate bond he shared with Guido, and an impending sense of foreboding that can only be fueled by the atmosphere of guilt and suspicion that reigns around him. As the narrative moves forward, the stage is set for inevitable conflict and tragedy, providing a tantalizing glimpse into a world where love can bloom amidst despair, making readers eager to uncover the fateful twists that await Fabio in his search for identity and resolution.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 10 hours
  • intermediate
  • dark
  • vengeful
  • passionate

Marie Corelli's "Vendetta: A Story of One Forgotten" plunges into the tumultuous life of Fabio Romani, a wealthy Neapolitan declared dead during a cholera epidemic, only to awaken and find himself buried alive. Upon his miraculous escape, he discovers his beloved wife, Nina, and his closest friend, Guido Ferrari, have not only betrayed his memory but are now entangled in a scandalous affair, reveling in his supposed demise. Driven by an all-consuming desire for retribution, Fabio assumes a new identity and meticulously orchestrates a chilling vendetta against those who wronged him. The novel explores the psychological toll of betrayal and the moral ambiguities of seeking personal justice, culminating in a dramatic and often tragic exploration of human nature's darker impulses.

To live, yet be dead to the world, is a torment only the truly wronged can comprehend, a hell from which no prayer can offer solace.

Key themes

Vendetta and Revenge
The central theme of the novel, exploring the psychological and moral complexities of seeking personal retribution outside the bounds of law. Fabio's meticulous and often cruel vendetta raises questions about justice, forgiveness, and the transformative power of hatred.
Betrayal and Deceit
The catalyst for the entire narrative, exploring the profound impact of infidelity and disloyalty from those closest to you. The novel delves into the shattering of trust and the moral depravity required to betray a spouse and a friend.
Identity and Rebirth
Fabio's literal 'death' and miraculous escape force him to forge a new identity, 'Eulalie,' for his vengeful purposes. This theme explores how extreme circumstances can strip away one's former self and necessitate a complete psychological and social transformation.

Worth discussing

To what extent is Fabio's vendetta justified, or does it ultimately make him as morally compromised as his betrayers?

Chapter-by-chapter breakdowns, character arcs and the full thematic analysis come with a free account.

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