Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto is a chivalric romance set during the war between Emperor Charlemagne of France and Moorish King Agramant, centering on the knight Orlando who goes mad from unrequited love for the princess Angelica, while interwoven narratives follow other characters like Rinaldo, Bradamant, and Ruggiero through various adventures, rescues, and battles. This epic poem includes graphic violence, non-consensual situations, and intense emotional distress.

Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto is heralded for its imaginative narrative, rich characterization, and intricate interweaving of multiple plotlines. Celebrated for its poetic mastery and influence on Western literature, it offers a vibrant depiction of chivalric romance. Some critics, however, find its length daunting and episodic structure disorienting. Overall, it remains a classic of epic poetry.

A reader who enjoys Orlando Furioso by Ludovico Ariosto likely has a passion for epic poetry, medieval romances, and intricate narratives filled with chivalry, magic, and adventure. Comparable to those entranced by The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri and Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes, they appreciate rich, imaginative tales interwoven with historical and fantastical elements.

Fantastical / Adventurous / Romantic / Humorous / Melancholic

Ludovico Ariosto

Adult

Novel/Book in Verse

Fiction

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Study Guide

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Overview

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Orlando Furioso Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Cantos 1-10

Orlando Furioso Cantos 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Cantos 11-20

Orlando Furioso Cantos 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Cantos 21-30

Orlando Furioso Cantos 21-30 Summary & Analysis

Cantos 31-40

Orlando Furioso Cantos 31-40 Summary & Analysis

Cantos 41-46

Orlando Furioso Cantos 41-46 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Orlando Furioso Character Analysis

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Themes

Orlando Furioso Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Orlando Furioso Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Orlando Furioso Literary Devices

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Important Quotes

Orlando Furioso Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Orlando Furioso Essay Topics

Orlando Furioso

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