Le Vergini: Commedia in Quattro Atti

A theatrical play written in the late 19th century. The narrative revolves around the lives of Delfina and her three daughters, who navigate the complexities of marriage and social expectations in contemporary Milan. The protagonists are caught between traditional values and the emerging modern ideals of love and independence. The opening of the play introduces us to Delfina’s home, filled with a mix of characters that reflect the societal dynamics of the time. Vercellini, a family friend, engages in conversation with Delfina about her daughters, particularly emphasizing the unconventional nature of her younger daughters, Selene and Ninì. As guests arrive, including Vittorio Olgiati and his friend Corrado Cantoni, the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation for social gatherings, underscoring the characters' hopes and anxieties about marriage and societal perceptions. Delfina's desire to marry off her daughters is made palpable, as is the tension between her ambitions and the girls' personalities. This sets the stage for the interplay of love, deception, and the quest for personal freedom that will unfold in the subsequent acts.