MEET THE CHARACTERS
MARIA
A young novice who has spent ten years in a convent and returns home due to the cholera. She is delicate, innocent, and deeply religious, but also restless and curious about the outside world.
NINO
A charming and charismatic young man, a law student and nature lover, who develops deep affection for Maria. He is gentle, with a strong sense of justice, but also impulsive and in love.
GIUDITTA
Maria’s step-sister. Outwardly confident and poised, Giuditta represents the life of freedom and societal standing that Maria can only observe from afar.
AGATA
A fellow nun whose story parallels Maria’s in many ways. Agata embodies both a warning and a source of wisdom, illustrating the consequences of longing unfulfilled and paths not taken.
GIOVANNI
Maria’s father. A loving, protective man still grieving the death of Maria’s mother. He is warm and jovial, and his main concern is the well-being of his daughters.
ROSALIA
Maria’s pragmatic and often cold stepmother, Rosalia navigates the delicate balance between her love for Giovanni and the insecurity of living in the shadow of his late first wife.
MARGHERITA
Nino’s loving and protective mother, concerned about his future and guiding him with moral support.
CORRADO
Nino’s father. He wishes for his son to follow in his footsteps and pursue a career in law.
ANNETTA
Nino’s sister, a minor character involved in the family dynamics.
ALMA
The Mother Superior, strict and authoritative, responsible for the novices. She is a guiding spiritual figure within the convent.
ANSELMO
The strict and solemn priest of the convent, constantly warning the novices of the dangers of the outside world.
FILOMENA, TERESA AND BENEDETTA
Minor nuns in the convent.