In 1814, on the secluded Elba island, Martino is an ardent young teacher who harbors a strong distaste for Napoleon Bonaparte. His heart belongs to Emily, a noble and striking baroness whose affections he yearns for. An unexpected twist of fate finds him in the position of serving as librarian to none other than Emperor Napoleon himself, an individual he despises. The young teacher is then tasked with recording Napoleon's memoirs, which provides him an opportunity to delve deeper into the man behind the infamous legacy.As Martino navigates this surreal world of seductions, affairs, expectations, and fears, he begins to see beyond the mythic figure and comes to appreciate the complexities of Napoleon. As their interactions deepen, so does Martino's understanding of the intricate layers that define the man. However, despite his growing empathy, the harsh reality of a world at odds with Napoleon's vision ultimately leads to a final, unavoidable disappointment for Martino. The story weaves an intricate tale of love, duty, and the complexity of human nature as it examines the life of one of history's most enigmatic figures through the eyes of a young, passionate idealist.
Comments & Reviews