About this book
Mistress of the Inn (La locandiera) by Carlo Goldoni crackles with wit and social insight as a clever innkeeper turns flirtation into a game of power and independence. Set in 18th-century Italy, this classic comedy follows Mirandolina, who runs a bustling Florence inn with the help of her faithful servant Fabrizio and finds herself the object of fascination for a pompous new-rich Count, a proud but impecunious Marquis, and the scornful Cavalier di Ripafratta. Goldoni’s razor-sharp dialogue and keen observation expose the foibles of class, gender, and the performative nature of aristocratic honor without ever losing its light, theatrical charm.
Born from Goldoni’s reform of Italian theater—moving away from commedia dell’arte’s stock masks toward nuanced, realistic characters—La locandiera blends satire, romance, and social critique into a brisk, stage-ready comedy. The play’s themes of autonomy, social ambition, and the politics of attraction remain fresh and surprisingly modern.
Ideal for lovers of classic drama, sharp social satire, and character-driven comedy, this audiobook brings Goldoni’s lively ensemble and sparkling repartee to life—perfect for listeners who enjoy witty, theatrical storytelling with historical flavor.
