Andrea Delfin: Eine Venezianische Novelle

A fictional novel written in the late 19th century. Set in the picturesque yet politically tumultuous backdrop of Venice, the story revolves around the titular character, Andrea Delfin, a man with a mysterious past who seeks refuge in a modest inn run by a widow, Giovanna Danieli, and her daughter, Marietta. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to the setting: a narrow Venetian alley called ''Bella Cortesia,'' where an old house stands, characterized by an image of Madonna and its shadowy stairway. The opening scenes depict Giovanna's daily life and her concern for her daughter's future, as they both navigate the struggles of a quiet life filled with loneliness and unresolved grief linked to Giovanna's late husband. When a stranger named Andrea arrives seeking a room, his demeanor evokes curiosity and suspicion from Giovanna, hinting at secrets contained within his persona. The interactions between Andrea and the women in the household, especially Marietta's playful spirit, lay the foundation for further developments, as they introduce elements of intrigue, romance, and hints of the oppressive political climate surrounding them.