
Rienzi, Last of the Roman Tribunes
Enriched edition. A Tale of Political Turmoil and Redemption in Ancient RomeBy Edward Bulwer-LyttonLength20h 36m
About this audiobook
In "Rienzi, Last of the Roman Tribunes," Edward Bulwer-Lytton intricately weaves historical fiction with romantic elements, presenting a vivid portrayal of Cola di Rienzo, a 14th-century Roman leader. The novel explores themes of power, ambition, and the social turmoil of medieval Rome, capturing the complexity of its characters amidst the backdrop of political strife. Bulwer-Lytton's lyrical prose is marked by its dramatic dialogue and rich descriptions, emulating the grand style of the Romantic period while echoing the struggle for personal and civic freedom. Edward Bulwer-Lytton, a prominent figure of Victorian literature, was renowned for his ability to blend adventure with social commentary. His fascination with history and politics, likely influenced by his own experiences as a Member of Parliament, informed his conception of Rienzi as a tragic hero'—a visionary beset by the weight of his aspirations. Bulwer-Lytton's work often reflects his belief in the power of leadership and the impact of individual choices on the course of history, making this novel a fitting exploration of these themes. Readers seeking a narrative rich in historical detail and emotional depth will find "Rienzi, Last of the Roman Tribunes" a compelling read. Bulwer-Lytton's masterful storytelling beckons those interested in the interplay of history and myth, making it an essential addition to the canon of historical literature.
In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.
Audiobook details
GenreHistorical Fiction, General Fiction
Length20 hrs 36 mins
Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices
FormateBook with Audio
Publish dateDec 15, 2023
LanguageEnglish
Table of contents
1Introduction
2Introduction
3Synopsis
4Historical Context
5Preface to the First Edition of Rienzi.
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6Preface to the Present Edition, 1848.
7Book I. The Time, The Place, and The Men.
8Chapter I. The Brothers.
9Chapter II. An Historical Survey—not to Be Passed Over, Except by
10Chapter III. The Brawl.
11Chapter IV. An Adventure.
12Chapter V. The Description of a Conspirator, and the Dawn of the Conspiracy.
13Chapter VI. Irene in the Palace of Adrian di Castello.
14Chapter VII. Upon Love and Lovers.
15Chapter VIII. The Enthusiastic Man Judged by the Discreet Man.
16Chapter IX. “When the People Saw this Picture, Every One Marvelled.”
17Chapter X. A Rough Spirit Raised, Which May Hereafter Rend the Wizard.
18Chapter XI. Nina di Raselli.
19Chapter XII. The Strange Adventures that Befel Walter de Montreal.
20Book II. The Revolution
21Chapter I. The Knight of Provence, and his Proposal.
22Chapter II. The Interview, and the Doubt.
23Chapter III. The Situation of a Popular Patrician in Times of Popular Discontent.—Scene of the Lateran.
24Chapter IV. The Ambitious Citizen, and the Ambitious Soldier.
25Chapter V. The Procession of the Barons.—The Beginning of the End.
26Chapter VI. The Conspirator Becomes the Magistrate.
27Chapter VII. Looking after the Halter when the Mare is Stolen.
28Chapter VIII. The Attack—the Retreat—the Election—and the Adhesion.
29Book III. The Freedom Without Law.
30Chapter I. The Return of Walter de Montreal to his Fortress.
31Chapter II. The Life of Love and War—the Messenger of Peace—the Joust.
32Chapter III. The Conversation between the Roman and the Provencal—Adeline’s History—the Moonlit Sea—the Lute and the Song.
33Book IV. The Triumph and the Pomp.
34Chapter I. The Boy Angelo—the Dream of Nina Fulfilled.
35Chapter II. The Blessing of A Councillor Whose Interests and Heart Are Our Own.—the Straws Thrown Upward—Do They Portend A Storm.
36Chapter III. The Actor Unmasked.
37Chapter IV. The Enemy’s Camp.
38Chapter V. The Night and its Incidents.
39Chapter VI. The Celebrated Citation.
40Chapter VII. The Festival.
41Book V. The Crisis.
42Chapter I. The Judgment of the Tribune.
43Chapter II. The Flight.
44Chapter III. The Battle.
45Chapter IV. The Hollowness of the Base.
46Chapter V. The Rottenness of the Edifice.
47Chapter VI. The Fall of the Temple.
48Chapter VII. The Successors of an Unsuccessful Revolution—Who is to Blame—the Forsaken one or the Forsakers?
49Book VI. The Plague.
50Chapter 1. The Retreat of the Lover.