The Intruder

"The Intruder" by Gabriele D'Annunzio is a story set in the late 1800s, focusing on Tullio Hermil and his troubled marriage to Juliana, a relationship strained by dishonesty and a craving for independence and togetherness. It explores themes of love, regret, and the confusing nature of people’s feelings by inviting the reader to look into the complicated sides of personal and romantic struggles. The novel begins with Tullio thinking about his chaotic life and a certain secret that weighs on him, as he considers his unfaithfulness and the effects it has had on Juliana. As Tullio thinks about his past, swinging between memories of love and sorrow, the reader sees his strong sense of self-importance and the harm caused by his longings. A sense of tension grows as he struggles with questions about loyalty, selfhood, and what might happen because of his actions. This leads to understanding love and loss on a deeper level, as the story grows around his conflicting passions and the duties he feels for his wife.