Daniella by George Sand. Short summary

5 seconds

Jean Valregues studies in Rome during the events of the 1848-50s. He meets the poor ironer Danielle and experiences many adventures. He becomes a good painter and is happy with his beloved.

1 minute

Young Jean Valreg is fascinated by the revolutionary events in Italy in 1848. He goes to Rome to study painting. He sends his diary to his mentor. Jean does not like Rome, but he is fascinated by rural Italy.

The revolution disappoints him. The 1850s are coming, but Italy is still turbulent. Gendarmes everywhere are looking for rioters.

Walreg meets Daniella, a beautiful, young, but poor ironmonger from Frascati. They both experience many political adventures.

The young people are forced to live among the ruins in an ancient villa, fleeing persecution. They meet Neapolitan conspirators, English travelers, Italian peasants, gendarmes, and bandits.

Danielle has a talent as a singer. Valreg becomes a fine artist. The characters find their happiness.

The novel is overflowing with anti-clerical outbursts and descriptions of the nature and sights of Italy.