“For more than twenty-five centuries we’ve been bearing the weight of a superb and heterogeneous civilization, all from outside, none made by ourselves, none that we could call our own,” wrote Giuseppe di Tomasi Lampedusa in his novel “Il Gattopardo,” or “The Leopard.” Published posthumously in 1958, the story about a prince and his family in the midst of the great changes in Sicily during the period before and after Italy’s unification became an international classic soon after. Then, in 1963, it became a stunning, epic film by Luchino Visconti and starring Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, and Claudia Cardinale.
I must see if I can find the book or the film – or both. What an interesting comment by the author about the heterogeneity of the culture – surprising yet not so after seeing all your photos and the sources of artworks on Sicily. I love this sharing of information you give your viewers/readers, continuing the tradition!
I found both book and film at Denver Public Library – on hold for me now! They are in the process of buying several more copies of the book now, too. Yay, love my library!
Dana, that’s fabulous! The book really helps you understand Sicilian culture in a profound way–through the eyes of a classic novel and romantic story. The film is just gorgeous to watch! The costumes, scenery, it’s just fabulous. Like Gone with the Wind, but Italian-style! Claudia Cardinale is exquisite. Enjoy!
P.S. I’ll be thinking of you this weekend… I’ll be at Omega. 🙂
Yes, I saw Claudia Cardinale was in the film – she’s so beautiful!
Wow, hope you enjoy your time at Omega with Tama. I love being around her in person. She’s everything and so much more than she is on the phone.