Summary
The House on the Hill unfolds in the tumultuous landscape of northern Italy during World War II, primarily focusing on the years 1943 and 1944. As the Allies make their way into Italy, the German forces dig in, while a chaotic mix of Italian governments vie for control. Meanwhile, the hills around Turin become a refuge for partisans and others seeking escape from the turmoil below.
Corrado's Wanderings
The story's narrator, Corrado, navigates an uncertain existence, shuttling between his teaching duties in Turin and the relative safety of a villa in the hills owned by Elvira and her mother. His movements reflect the city's inhabitants, who flee to higher ground at night to avoid the threats of air raids. Despite the constant motion, Corrado finds no peace, only a temporary sense of calm when viewing the serene cityscape from a distance by night or imagining the tranquil hills as a haven by day.
Introducing Characters and Their Fates
Early in the novel, Corrado presents several characters destined to fade from his life, casualties of the war or victims of Fascist imprisonment. Among his circle are anti-Fascist friends, notably Fonso, a young partisan capable of decisive action that Corrado himself avoids. As these characters face their fates, Corrado remains a passive observer, unable to commit to their cause.
The Return of Cate
Corrado's past resurfaces when Cate, a former lover, returns with her son, Dino, who is likely Corrado's own child. Rekindling his friendship with Cate, he spends time with her and Dino, deepening his emotional entanglements. Meanwhile, Elvira, another character with deep feelings for Corrado, experiences his rejection wrapped in disdain and pity. Corrado's belief that "We are born and die alone" is met with Elvira's simple longing: "But we just want a little love...."
Mounting Danger
As the summer of 1943 progresses, Mussolini's regime falls, and the Germans tighten their grip on Turin. The war's brutality intensifies and becomes more intimate, with Corrado sensing an underlying horror amidst the historical cycles of hope and devastation. As Fonso and others prepare to join the resistance in the hills, Dino is drawn into their orbit. Cate's subsequent imprisonment only heightens the stakes.
Seeking Refuge
The Germans, seemingly interested in Corrado due to his connections with Fonso and Cate, conduct a lackluster search for him. Corrado, feeling insignificant and undeserving of even punishment, finds temporary asylum at the College of Chieri, thanks to Elvira. However, his refuge is short-lived as the seminary's students, echoing societal divisions, turn against each other, leading to further danger.
Fleeing Once More
By spring 1944, the threat of German capture forces Corrado to flee Chieri, and Dino vanishes, likely joining the partisan fighters. Corrado retreats to his family's farm in another set of hills, threading his way through a landscape teeming with Italian Fascists, Germans, and various armed factions. The violence he encounters is unpredictable and sporadic.
Reflections and Realizations
Six months later, Corrado reflects on his life, acknowledging the inauthenticity of his previous existence. He begins to understand that life is about more than the survival he has practiced. Though the war continues, Corrado realizes with a somber clarity that true peace may only come with death.
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