Irish-Italian Early Exchanges in the Nineteenth Century
Irish-Italian Early Exchanges in the Nineteenth Century

Summary/Abstract: This article explores Irish perspectives on Italy in the nineteenth century through the writings of James Whiteside, Lady Morgan, and Francis Mahony. Whiteside, in Italy in the Nineteenth Century, extols Rome as the “City of the Soul,” reflecting a deep reverence for its historical grandeur and the enduring influence of its past on the present. His Romantic approach portrays Rome as a living embodiment of its ancient glory, bridging the past with contemporary inspiration. In contrast, Lady Morgan’s Italy offers a critical view of Italian society, juxtaposing its historical beauty with contemporary political and social challenges. Her travelogue reveals her dissatisfaction with Italian governance and highlights her broader social justice and reform concerns. Mahony’s satirical writings, known for their wit and critical lens, provide another facet of the Irish perspective, adding to the discourse on Italian cultural and political issues. While Whiteside’s work emphasizes a spiritual connection to Rome’s historical legacy, Lady Morgan’s writing critiques the gap between Italy’s past splendour and present realities. Together, these accounts illustrate the diverse Irish responses to Italy, blending admiration with critical analysis and providing insights into nineteenth-century Italy՚s cultural and political dynamics.

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