Plot summary, “Christ Stopped At Eboli” by Carlo Levi in 3 Minutes - Book Review
0"Christ Stopped at Eboli" is a memoir written by Carlo Levi, an Italian-Jewish writer, doctor, and painter. The book was published in 1945 and has become a classic in Italian literature. The title, "Christ Stopped at Eboli," alludes to the idea that the region of Southern Italy, specifically the town of Eboli and its surrounding areas, is so remote and neglected that it was as if even Christ did not reach there, signifying a sense of abandonment and isolation.
The book is based on Carlo Levi's personal experiences. In 1935, Levi, a political dissident, was exiled by the Fascist government to the remote region of Basilicata in Southern Italy. The Italian government saw him as a threat due to his anti-Fascist views and writings. During his exile, he lived in the town of Aliano (also known as Gagliano in the book) and the surrounding countryside.
In "Christ Stopped at Eboli," Levi recounts his time in this impoverished, remote, and forgotten region of Italy. He vividly describes the harsh living conditions, poverty, and the isolation of the local people. Despite the difficult circumstances, Levi developed a deep affection for the peasants and the region. He used his medical skills to help the local population and also became involved in their social and cultural life.
Levi's book is not only a personal memoir but also a reflection on the social, economic, and political conditions of Southern Italy during the early 20th century. He portrays the people of Basilicata as victims of neglect and abandonment by the Italian government and a distant, uncaring north. The book is also a meditation on the cultural and historical differences between the north and the south of Italy.
"Christ Stopped at Eboli" is celebrated for its poetic and empathetic portrayal of the people and the landscape of the region. It sheds light on the issues of poverty, social injustice, and regional disparities in Italy. The book is considered a masterpiece of Italian literature and remains relevant for its insights into the complex and diverse cultural and social landscape of Italy.