The Cabala

Thornton Wilder's debut novel, The Cabala, follows Samuele, an American student, as he immerses himself in the opulent yet decaying realm of post-World War I Rome. Within this decadent community of fading European royalty, eccentric expatriates, and a notable cardinal, Samuele witnesses the intricate dynamics of a “cabala” that embodies the remnants of ancient divinity. Wilder's rich character portrayals and evocative storytelling not only showcase his literary talent but also capture the essence of an era marked by privilege and decline.