I coniugi Shelley in Campania

Abstract

Mary and Percy Shelley’s visit to Campania (from December 1st, 1818 to February 28th, 1819) was certainly one of the highlights of their stay in Italy. Even if they shared a deep interest in exploring new territories, despite the shared enthusiasm for the spectacular scenery and the archaeological ruins, Percy and Mary Shelley displayed a much different attitude towards the local populations, which well exemplifies their feelings towards Italy and Italians. While Mary proved open and unprejudiced, Percy was disdainful and contemptuous. This essay aims at analyzing the complex relationship both writers had with Campania; the frequent references to their sojourn in their published works, as well as in private letters and in Mary Shelley’s «Journal», will be used to support the analysis.