Today we will jet to Rome, to one of the settings in the book, The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas. Yes, much of the story takes place in France, but since we are virtually visiting Rome today, we'll discuss what happens to The Count while he was there.
An opening to an inner court, Rome - Photo by Mary Vee
After Edmond Dantés escapes prison and becomes the Count of Monte Cristo, we find him in Rome at the carnival. Rome was the perfect place to set this scene. The city is crowded, busy, and full of life. The Count rode in a luxurious carriage while we traveled in a tour bus, no sane person would attempt driving Rome's city roads without experience. What amazed us most was the driver's ability to turn the monster vehicle ninety degrees without touching a curb.
Rome is the setting that transitions Edmond Dantés the prisoner, the deceived one, the naive one, the duped one, the uneducated one owning absolutely nothing into the Count of Monte Cristo, a well-educated man (thanks to the teachings of a priest in prison), a high society dressed man, and a man of means who lives in a palatial setting.
Rome is the pivotal setting. The Count of Monte Cristo establishes his new name, his wealth, high station, and credibility here before returning to Paris. With these tools, author Alexandre Dumas grants Cristo the ability to seek revenge and all he'd lost.
But this is not how the story ends.
The Colosseum - Photo by Mary Vee
The Carnival mentioned in this story was a flamboyant event, placing everyone, no matter their financial status, at the same status. Guest donned ornate costumes and wore masks. Jugglers, jesters, and beheadings served as only a few of the entertainments.
*Guards for St. Peter's Basilica dressed in Swiss Army Uniforms designed by Michelangelo - Photo by Mary Vee
Rome is the setting that transitions Edmond Dantés the prisoner, the deceived one, the naive one, the duped one, the uneducated one owning absolutely nothing into the Count of Monte Cristo, a well-educated man (thanks to the teachings of a priest in prison), a high society dressed man, and a man of means who lives in a palatial setting.
The Spanish Stairs - Photo by Mary Vee
The Vatican City - Photo by Mary Vee
Rome is the pivotal setting. The Count of Monte Cristo establishes his new name, his wealth, high station, and credibility here before returning to Paris. With these tools, author Alexandre Dumas grants Cristo the ability to seek revenge and all he'd lost.
*art in the Vatican museum - Photo by Mary Vee
But this is not how the story ends.
An interesting discover happens, completely changing The Count of Monte Cristo. You'll have to read the story or watch the movie to find out what happened.
*spiral staircase, look closely at the bottom level. Who do you see? - Photo by Mary Vee
This was a great visit to Rome. Naturally we saw much more, but the Count didn't visit those places. Maybe we'll share the other things we saw in a future book review.
As for me I give this book a 5 out of 5 *****
This post has been brought to you by Cristo in Rome.
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