(Capitolo 11) Promessi sposi: Analisi

Summary

In this video, Patrick Seri provides an in-depth analysis of Chapter 11 of *I Promessi Sposi* by Alessandro Manzoni. He breaks down the chapter into five key points, discussing the structure, Don Rodrigo's mediocrity, the fierce irony towards the character of Griso, Renzo's disorienting perspective upon arriving in Milan, and Manzoni's stance on popular uprisings. The analysis highlights the novel's sharp character portrayals and Manzoni's critique of the crowd's irrationality, reflecting his support for enlightened reform. Patrick also explores the symbolism and social commentary within the chapter, keeping viewers engaged in this literary exploration.

Takeaways

• 😀 The structure of Chapter 11 is divided into two parts: a flashback of Lucia's abduction and Renzo's perspective.
• 😀 Don Rodrigo is depicted as a mediocre and fearful character, lacking charisma and even feeling afraid of the consequences of his actions.
• 😀 Manzoni uses sharp irony to portray the character of the Griso, comparing him to a wolf forced to descend from the mountains to seek food.
• 😀 Renzo's perspective is foreign and confused when he arrives in Milan during the 1628 riots, believing he’s entered a land of abundance.
• 😀 The narrative frequently uses animalistic metaphors to describe characters like the Griso, emphasizing their baseness and violence.
• 😀 Renzo's misunderstanding of Milan’s situation highlights his naivety and disconnect from the realities of urban life.
• 😀 Manzoni distances himself from the popular uprisings, suggesting that the revolts are driven by basic instincts like hunger rather than political insight.
• 😀 The Griso is compared to a guard dog, reinforcing his role as a weak, subservient character who only feels powerful when supported by his master.
• 😀 Renzo's failure to understand economic principles, such as the laws of supply and demand, showcases his limited social and political awareness.
• 😀 Manzoni critiques the idea of the populist uprisings, portraying them as impulsive and ineffective due to a lack of proper leadership or direction.

Q & A

What is the structure of Chapter 11 in Manzoni's 'Promessi Sposi'?

The chapter is divided into two parts. The first part is a flashback where Manzoni revisits events from the night of November 10, starting with Lucia's abduction. The second part focuses on the character Renzo, who is the central figure of the narrative from Chapter 11 to Chapter 17.

How does Manzoni depict the character of Don Rodrigo in Chapter 11?

Don Rodrigo is portrayed as a mediocre and cowardly character. He is shown as lacking charisma, and at times, even ridiculous. He expresses fear about the consequences of his actions and is portrayed as a character with little moral strength.

What is the significance of Don Rodrigo's jealousy of Lucia in Chapter 11?

Don Rodrigo's jealousy of Lucia is presented as pathological. His obsessive desire to prevent her from spending the night with Renzo highlights his possessiveness and unhealthy obsession, revealing a deeper moral and emotional flaw.

How does Manzoni use irony in his portrayal of the character Griso?

Manzoni uses sharp irony when describing Griso, especially in scenes where Griso shows fear of the bounty on his head. He is compared to a guard dog, useful only when he has a master behind him, emphasizing his cowardice and lack of independent strength.

Why does Manzoni use animal similitudes when describing Griso?

Animal similitudes are used to emphasize Griso's baser instincts—violence, fear, and servility. The comparisons to animals such as dogs and wolves underline his lack of human virtue and his submission to fear and instinctive behavior.

How does Renzo perceive Milan when he arrives there in Chapter 11?

Renzo perceives Milan as a land of abundance and wealth, mistakenly interpreting the chaotic scene of the bread riots as a sign of prosperity. He is initially oblivious to the true conditions, seeing the city as a 'land of plenty' without understanding the social or economic dynamics.

What is the significance of the Lazzaretto mentioned in Chapter 11?

The Lazzaretto is mentioned as a significant location that will play an important role later in the story. Its introduction marks a turning point in the narrative, with Milan's internal strife setting the stage for future events.

How does Manzoni critique Renzo's understanding of the situation in Milan?

Manzoni critiques Renzo's naive view of Milan, highlighting his lack of understanding of the city's social, political, and economic complexities. Renzo, like many of the common people, believes that the bakers are hoarding flour to raise prices and enrich themselves at the expense of the poor.

What is Manzoni's stance on popular uprisings, as seen in Chapter 11?

Manzoni criticizes popular uprisings, viewing them as misguided and ineffective. He believes the masses are incapable of achieving positive change because their actions are driven by base instincts, such as hunger, rather than rational political thought.

How does Manzoni use the character of Renzo to reflect the broader social conditions of the time?

Renzo's journey and his misinterpretation of Milan's social unrest reflect the broader confusion and helplessness of the lower classes during times of crisis. His lack of understanding about the causes of the riots and his naive belief in the city's wealth symbolize the ignorance and disillusionment of the common people in that era.