Fantasy: A Novel

"Fantasy: A Novel" by Matilde Serao is a work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The narrative opens in a convent school, introducing a group of young girls and their daily lives under the strict supervision of their teachers. Central to the beginning is the character of Lucia Altimare, whose emotional struggles and intense feelings are set against the backdrop of religious and social pressures, hinting at themes of friendship, individuality, and the quest for identity. The opening portion establishes a vivid scene in the chapel as the girls engage in prayer and reflect on their lives. As the evening unfolds, we see Lucia grappling with her internal conflict, often longing for a deeper understanding of her world, while also attracting the attention of her peers. The sense of camaraderie and competition among the girls is palpable, particularly as they react to their school assignments and the authority of their teachers. As the narrative progresses, Lucia's bond with her friend Caterina is highlighted, setting the stage for future developments and emotional turmoil. This introduction weaves together the intricacies of youth, social expectations, and individual aspirations in a richly descriptive manner. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Matilde Serao was an Italian journalist and novelist. She was the first woman called to edit an Italian newspaper, Il Corriere di Roma and later Il Giorno. Serao was also the co-founder and editor of the newspaper Il Mattino, and the author of several novels. She never won the Nobel Prize in Literature despite being nominated on six occasions.