Thursday, 4 February 2016

Captain Correlli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres

Captain Corelli's Mandolin Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernières
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a beautiful tale of love in a time of conflict; and there are great moments hilarious created from the stubbornness of the characters. After a large focus on the political picture of war-torn southern Europe (where there is a great monologue from the Duce of Italy), we are introduced to Pelagia and her father, and of their Greek traditions in Cephallonia. The novel solely focuses on the little people, of how no-one wants to fight the war and that it is forced upon all parties. Bernieres uses a combination of both first and third person narratives to tell his tale; so that we gain an understanding from all perspectives, and learn of their forbidden love, heartbreaks and ambitions. There are some great scenarios such as the unexploded mine, but also some tragic moments like the shooting of the Italian prisoners. The story ends with a heart-warming reunion of the lovers after so many years; albeit with its moments of comedy.

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