Elena Ferrante’s rich, intense Neapolitan Quartet—four volumes of late-night page turners for her devoted readers—allows us to enter the world of two friends whose lives change over the course of 60 years after World War II. During this time, the fiery Lila, and the bookish narrator, Elena, make the journey together as women, wives, mothers, and leaders, while maintaining a complex and at times conflictual relationship. The themes of friendship, family, education, money, and ambition play out against the backdrop of impoverished Naples and reflect the larger history of 20th-century Italy.
Join Lisbeth Strimple Fuisz, a lecturer in the English department at Georgetown University, in spirited lectures and informal discussions about these four compelling books. Participants should read each book prior to the corresponding class.
Please note individual sessions are available for purchase.
MAR 5 My Brilliant Friend (2012)
The beginning of Lila and Elena’s relationship, from their first encounter as 10-year-olds through their adolescence.
APR 9 The Story of a New Name (2013)
Lila has recently married and has entered the family business. Elena continues her education beyond the neighborhood.
MAY 7 Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay (2014)
Both women are open to new opportunities as they push against the lives they were expected to live.
JUN 4 The Story of the Lost Child (2015)
Elena returns to Naples to be with the man she has always loved. Lila, now a successful entrepreneur, still deals with old-school chauvinism and nepotism.
4 sessions
