Headstrong and naïve, the young Italian aristocrat Fabrizio del Dongo is
determined to defy the wrath of his right-wing father and go to war to
fight for Napoleon. He stumbles on the Battle of Waterloo, ill-prepared,
yet filled with enthusiasm for war and glory. Finally heeding advice,
Fabrizio sneaks back to Milan, only to become embroiled in a series of
amorous exploits, fuelled by his impetuous nature and the political
chicanery of his aunt Gina and her wily lover. Judged by Balzac to be
the most important French novel of its time, The Charterhouse of Parma
is a compelling novel of extravagance and daring, blending the intrigues
of the Italian court with the romance and excitement of youth.
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