L'Italien

L'atmosphère de L'Italien est sombre et mystérieuse et inclut des thèmes comme l'amour, la dévotion et les persécutions de la Sainte Inquisition. On y retrouve par ailleurs des problématiques importantes à l'époque de la Révolution française comme la religion, l'aristocratie et la nation. Le célèbre usage de l'image du voile par Radcliffe atteint ici des sommets, la dissimulation et le travestissement étant également des thèmes majeurs du livre.
Tout comme le voulaient le XVIIIe siècle et son attrait pour le sublime et la pastorale, les personnages de Radcliffe subissent des tourments dont les éléments se font l'écho.

Ann Radcliffe was an English novelist and a pioneering figure in Gothic fiction, born on July 9, 1764, in Holborn, London. She gained significant recognition for her work in the Gothic genre, especially in the 1790s. Radcliffe was known for her distinctive approach of explaining seemingly supernatural events with rational or natural explanations, which helped elevate Gothic fiction's status during her time. Her writing was not only influential but also pivotal in shaping the structure of the Gothic novel. She married William Radcliffe in 1787, and the couple remained together until her death. Ann Radcliffe's works, such as The Mysteries of Udolpho and The Italian, are widely regarded as classics of Gothic literature. Her novels are notable for their complex plots, atmospheric settings, and exploration of the interplay between reason and the supernatural. Radcliffe's ability to weave suspense, mystery, and psychological tension made her one of the most prominent authors of the genre. She passed away on February 7, 1823, in Ramsgate, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of literature. Her impact on Gothic fiction and her unique style continue to be appreciated by readers and scholars alike.