Spain, v. 1 (of 2)

"Spain, v. 1 (of 2)" by Edmondo De Amicis is a 19th-century travelogue where the author recounts his voyage through Spain, portraying his experiences and encounters as an Italian abroad. The narrative not only presents personal observations but also cultural understandings of the Spanish, their traditions, and the era's political atmosphere. Initially, the book unveils the author's emotional farewell from Italy, emphasizing his sadness before his Spanish adventure starts as he narrates his travels from Turin to Barcelona, the author meets diverse people, including companions and fellow travelers, influencing his views on the journey. The writing captures his interest in the scenery and individuals he comes across, alongside an increasing fascination with Spain's intricate political situation, touching on discussions of monarchy and republic. Throughout the initial segment, De Amicis's eloquent descriptions and thoughtful style draw readers into his personal voyage and Spain's wide cultural landscape.