I promessi sposi
The Original Novel by Alessandro Manzoni, Rewritten and Adapted for Intermediate Italian Learners (B1—B2)

 by Laura Tegazzin, Simplicio Stella

The Betrothed is one of the most important novels in Italian literature. Written by Alessandro Manzoni and published in its final version in 1840, it tells the story of Renzo and Lucia, two young peasants who wish to marry but are prevented by the abuse of power of a local nobleman. Their story unfolds against the backdrop of real historical events, such as famine, war, and the plague that struck Northern Italy in the seventeenth century.

This novel is not only a tale of love and injustice: it is also a rich portrait of society at the time, narrated with irony, humanity, and depth. For this reason, it has long been one of the most studied texts in Italian high schools. However, the original language is very rich and complex, with long descriptions and philosophical reflections that can be challenging for those learning Italian.

This edition has been adapted for intermediate-level students. The language has been simplified and the length reduced, but the plot has not been altered. Only some particularly long passages—those that digress from the main storyline—have been removed.

The sentences are shorter, the vocabulary more accessible, and the text includes notes to help readers understand idiomatic expressions and cultural references. This kind of reading allows learners to acquire the language naturally, while enjoying one of the greatest classics of Italian literature.