Ettore Fieramosca: Ossia, La Disfida Di Barletta

A historical novel written in the mid-19th century. This work centers on the legendary figure Ettore Fieramosca and his involvement in the celebrated challenge of Barletta, depicting the clash between Italian and French forces during the early 16th century. The novel explores themes of honor, valor, and national identity, particularly highlighting the pride of the Italian soldiers. At the start of the narrative, the reader is transported to a picturesque evening in Barletta in April 1503, where a group of soldiers gathers near the sea, expressing camaraderie despite the looming threat of starvation. As they engage in conversation, a sense of despair emerges amidst their banter, primarily due to the dire circumstances imposed by the French siege. The opening chapters also introduce characters like the stoic Spaniard and the vibrant Italians, setting the stage for rising tensions between the two factions. Inigo, a Spanish soldier, ultimately challenges a French officer, La Motta, to a duel, igniting a fierce sense of national pride among the Italians that compels them to defend their honor against the French. This sets off a chain of events leading to the pivotal encounter that will shape the rest of the story.