53 pages • 1 hour read
The Enchantress Of Florence
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Book Brief
349
Novel • Fiction
Florence, Italy • Renaissance
2008
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Enchantress of Florence by Salman Rushdie is a magical-realist novel set in the Mughal Empire and Renaissance Florence in the 16th century. A mysterious European named Niccolo Vespucci arrives at the Mughal court claiming to be the long-lost relative of Emperor Akbar. He recounts a tale involving a princess who becomes the Enchantress of Florence, weaving together history, myth, and intrigue. The source text contains references to sexual violence and death by suicide.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Contemplative
Romantic
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
19,599 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Enchantress of Florence by Salman Rushdie blends historical fiction with magical realism. Critics praise its vivid storytelling, lush prose, and intricate plot weaving. However, it is sometimes criticized for excessive digressions and convoluted narrative threads. Overall, it is celebrated for its imaginative and richly detailed portrayal of 16th-century cultures.
Who Should Read The Enchantress Of Florence?
Readers who relish a blend of historical fiction and magical realism will appreciate Salman Rushdie's The Enchantress of Florence. Fans of Gabriel García Márquez's One Hundred Years of Solitude and Umberto Eco's The Name of the Rose will find its rich tapestry of imagination and historical depth captivating.
19,599 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Akbar
Akbar
The powerful Mughal Emperor known for his introspective nature and ability to shape reality in a magical-realist setting, struggling with the balance between personal identity and imperial duty.
Angelica/Qara Koz/The Enchantress of Florence
Angelica/Qara Koz/The Enchantress of Florence
A character of many names, she is a captivating figure whose identity shifts depending on who perceives her, reflecting the desires of those she encounters from India to Florence.
Il Machia/Niccolo Machiavelli
Il Machia/Niccolo Machiavelli
Based on the historical figure, he is depicted as an idealistic young man who dreams of a strong Florentine Republic but faces personal and political challenges that shape his outlook.
349
Novel • Fiction
Florence, Italy • Renaissance
2008
Adult
18+ years
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