The Woman and the Priest

This fiction by Grazia Deledda presents an intense and absorbing story of Paulo, a young priest who has the confidence of everyone in his country, a place rich in traditions and united by solid ethical law. People consider him an example of faith and dedication. Paulo falls in love with Agnes, a woman living alone in the large family estate. Paulo's mother notices his feelings and is committed to protecting him from this forbidden love by trying to bring him back on the correct path and reminding him of his responsibilities as a priest. The rest of the novel circles the interesting events that follow. This is a translation of the Italian novel La Madre, a story of religion and corruption, weakness and joy, anxieties and desires that are out of control. The book is filled with rich characterizations, incredible descriptions, and a strong contrast between Catholic customs and village superstition. It is an amazingly striking novel that illustrates this tiny Italian island and its villagers in lifelike colors.