(Capitolo 22) Promessi sposi: Analisi

Summary

In this video, Patrick Cieli discusses Chapter 22 of *The Betrothed* by Alessandro Manzoni, focusing on Cardinal Federico Borromeo's biography and his significant influence. The chapter is divided into two parts: one detailing a visit by the protagonist to the cardinal, and the second exploring Borromeo’s life and virtues. Manzoni portrays the cardinal positively, highlighting his moral stature, humility, and dedication to the poor, though critics argue he idealizes Borromeo. The video also touches on the historical impact of Borromeo, such as the founding of the Ambrosian Library, and addresses the complex relationship between the church, power, and virtue in Manzoni's novel.

Takeaways

• 😀 The script begins with Patrick Cieli thanking Agatino Finocchiaro and Fabrizio Arias for their kind comments.
• 😀 The discussion centers on Chapter 22 of *I Promessi Sposi*, which is divided into two parts: one focusing on the protagonist's visit to Cardinal Federico Borromeo, and the other providing a long biography of the cardinal.
• 😀 The first part of the chapter depicts the protagonist seeking spiritual guidance from Cardinal Borromeo to ease his inner turmoil.
• 😀 The second part of the chapter presents a detailed biography of Cardinal Borromeo, emphasizing his virtues and positive traits.
• 😀 Some critics have accused Manzoni of overly praising the cardinal, describing the biography as excessively flattering and agiographic.
• 😀 Manzoni's portrayal of Borromeo emphasizes his life of virtue, illuminated by grace, and intended to serve as an example for others.
• 😀 Manzoni acknowledges the cardinal's mistakes, including his belief that the plague was caused by the parents' actions and his involvement in witchcraft trials, but these are subtly alluded to, not justified.
• 😀 The cardinal is portrayed as a man of humility, frugality, cleanliness, and morality, standing in stark contrast to the vices prevalent in his era.
• 😀 Manzoni views Borromeo's virtues as a symbol of the aristocracy's role in guiding society, contrasting with the materialistic and self-interested bourgeoisie and the violent instincts of the masses.
• 😀 The chapter includes historical details, such as Borromeo founding the Ambrosian Library, which became a pioneering public library during the 1600s and still holds significant works today, including manuscripts by Leonardo da Vinci and others.
• 😀 The script also notes that Manzoni humorously addresses the lack of literary recognition for Borromeo's works, implying they were forgotten due to the intellectual vacuity of the time.
• 😀 The script ends by referencing an anecdote about Borromeo preventing the forced monastic confinement of a girl, which relates to the story of Gertrude in earlier chapters, reflecting the cardinal's opposition to this practice.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Chapter 22 in 'I Promessi Sposi'?

Chapter 22 of 'I Promessi Sposi' is divided into two parts. The first part focuses on the character of Nominato visiting Cardinal Federico Borromeo in the hope that the Cardinal can resolve his inner turmoil. The second part is a detailed biography of Cardinal Borromeo.

How does the narrator view Cardinal Borromeo in the text?

The narrator views Cardinal Borromeo in a positive light, presenting him as an exemplary figure whose virtues stand in stark contrast to the vices prevalent in the society of his time.

Why do critics accuse Manzoni of overly praising Cardinal Borromeo?

Critics accuse Manzoni of giving an excessive and overly flattering portrayal of Cardinal Borromeo, arguing that his depiction resembles an agiographical narrative, where the focus on the Cardinal's virtues overshadows his flaws.

What flaws of Cardinal Borromeo does Manzoni subtly address?

Manzoni subtly alludes to some of Cardinal Borromeo's flaws, such as his belief that the plague was caused by parental sins and his involvement in some witchcraft trials, although he does not justify these errors.

What is the purpose of the positive portrayal of Cardinal Borromeo?

Manzoni aims to present Cardinal Borromeo as a model of virtues, such as humility, frugality, and moral integrity, which were rare during the decadence of the 17th century. This serves to highlight the contrast between Borromeo's qualities and the prevalent vices of the time.

What political beliefs of Manzoni are reflected in the portrayal of Cardinal Borromeo?

Manzoni believed that society should be led by the aristocracy, not the bourgeoisie or the common people, as he considered the latter groups too self-interested and violent. Cardinal Borromeo, being an aristocrat with exceptional moral stature, is portrayed as an ideal leader.

What makes Cardinal Borromeo's character stand out in the novel?

Cardinal Borromeo is an exception in the novel because, unlike other characters in the church who are often portrayed negatively, he is a virtuous and powerful aristocrat who interacts directly with the protagonists, influencing their lives.

What is unique about the biography of Cardinal Borromeo in 'I Promessi Sposi'?

The biography of Cardinal Borromeo is given significant attention in Chapter 22, a unique feature in the novel. It is an extended narrative about a historical figure, and it contrasts with the rest of the book's focus on the fictional characters.

How does the narrative treat the literary legacy of Cardinal Borromeo?

Manzoni lightly touches upon the fact that Cardinal Borromeo's works have not achieved lasting literary fame, suggesting that they were forgotten due to their vacuity, which was characteristic of the intellectual climate of the 17th century.

What role did Cardinal Borromeo play in the establishment of the Ambrosiana Library?

Cardinal Borromeo founded the Ambrosiana Library in 1607, which was revolutionary at the time because it was one of the first libraries open to the public. The library contained significant manuscripts, including works by Leonardo da Vinci and other famous authors.