53 pages • 1 hour read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
254
Novel • Fiction
Medieval Europe • 8th Century
1959
Adult
12+ years
The Nonexistent Knight by Italo Calvino follows the tale of Agilulf, an empty suit of armor embodying the ideals of chivalry in Charlemagne's court. Agilulf embarks on quests and battles alongside a colorful cast, including the vengeful Raimbaut and the quirky Gurduloo, while challenging traditional chivalric values and the notion of existence. Themes of identity, honor, and love are explored in a medieval setting.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Playful
Humorous
Contemplative
The Nonexistent Knight by Italo Calvino showcases a unique blend of fantasy and philosophy through its titular character, an empty suit of armor who embodies duty and honor. Positively, reviewers praise its wit and inventive narrative. Negatively, some find it overly episodic and fragmented. Its allegorical depth sparks varied interpretations, though, engaging readers substantively.
Fans of imaginative and satirical literature like Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes or Candide by Voltaire will appreciate The Nonexistent Knight. Readers who enjoy whimsical yet profound explorations of identity and existence in a medieval setting will find Calvino's narrative both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Raimbaut
A young man on a quest to avenge his father's death by a Moorish knight, seeking guidance in chivalry and grappling with the emotional implications of his actions. He undergoes significant personal development throughout his journey.
Bradamante/Sister Theodora
A skilled female knight at Charlemagne's court who defies gender norms and later serves as the novel's narrator. She has a complex relationship with her romantic interests and ultimately prioritizes personal agency.
Gurduloo
A peasant who becomes Agilulf's squire and is characterized by his mutable identity, taking on different forms and behaviors based on his surroundings. He serves as a contrast to the rigid and principled Agilulf.
254
Novel • Fiction
Medieval Europe • 8th Century
1959
Adult
12+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.