The Leopard (novel by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa)

*The Leopard* by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa is a historical novel set in 19th-century Sicily during the Italian unification. It follows Prince Fabrizio Salina, a nobleman, as he witnesses the decline of aristocratic aristocracy amidst social and political upheaval. The story explores themes of change, decay, stability, and the inevitable passing of tradition, portraying how the old Italian elite confronts a transforming world. Through rich descriptions and introspective characters, the novel offers a nuanced reflection on history, decay, and the nature of societal transformation.