The Invention of Sicily
Jamie MackayNon-fiction
Finished on 19.10.2021
My thoughts
Introduction:
To anyone who's visited Sicily and experienced the uniqueness and vibrancy of this roughly hewn jewel, the news that there is a deep and involved history to be discovered will come as little surprise. What may be surprising however is just how much has occurred on, and to, this small island. More often than not, it has been both a vanguard of progressive political ideas in Europe and at times a touchstone for more nefarious movements. This is a place where religion, culture and people collide under the relentless heat of the Mediterranean sun, a place on the edge and at the centre of Europe.
This is an accessible yet sufficiently detailed look at the formation of Sicily. Mackay takes us deftly and with surprising nimbleness, given the sheer volume of events covered, from 800 BC to the modern day (2013). The history is told in chapters each tracking a certain time period and focusing, loosely, on a handful of specific themes and events. The result is a multifaceted look at architecture, politics, art, conquest and even cuisine. All presented with an evident affection for the unifying subject, Sicily.
There are many stories and characters, a personal favorite is the section regarding the positive rule of King Fredrick, whose presence brings about a golden age in Sicily. This was all the more cathartic since Sicily, as the reader will discover, has its fair share of less enlightened rulers.
Another fascinating element is the rise of the Mafia, or Cosa Nostra. Their history is deeply embedded within the development of modern Italy and this book tracks their role throughout. First showing us the early “robin-hood” like characters and the latter co-option of these very myths in modern politics. Mackay manages to steer clear of glorifying the Mafia and clearly condemns their exploitative and cruel methods while also being sympathetic to the complex social circumstances that give rise to such organisations and allow them to thrive.
Finally, Mackay ends with a look at modern day Sicily, particularly at the refugee crisis. However the final message is one of optimism. This sentiment is subtly delivered throughout the book as the reader is exposed to the positive impact of immigration on Scilly and is left to make their own conclusion regarding the contemporary state of affairs. The author's opinion on the matter is clear, the book ends on a message of hope and unity from the Mayor of Palermo, it seems Sicily may again be a vanguard for better things to come.
To anyone who's visited Sicily and experienced the uniqueness and vibrancy of this roughly hewn jewel, the news that there is a deep and involved history to be discovered will come as little surprise. What may be surprising however is just how much has occurred on, and to, this small island. More often than not, it has been both a vanguard of progressive political ideas in Europe and at times a touchstone for more nefarious movements. This is a place where religion, culture and people collide under the relentless heat of the Mediterranean sun, a place on the edge and at the centre of Europe.
This is an accessible yet sufficiently detailed look at the formation of Sicily. Mackay takes us deftly and with surprising nimbleness, given the sheer volume of events covered, from 800 BC to the modern day (2013). The history is told in chapters each tracking a certain time period and focusing, loosely, on a handful of specific themes and events. The result is a multifaceted look at architecture, politics, art, conquest and even cuisine. All presented with an evident affection for the unifying subject, Sicily.
There are many stories and characters, a personal favorite is the section regarding the positive rule of King Fredrick, whose presence brings about a golden age in Sicily. This was all the more cathartic since Sicily, as the reader will discover, has its fair share of less enlightened rulers.
Another fascinating element is the rise of the Mafia, or Cosa Nostra. Their history is deeply embedded within the development of modern Italy and this book tracks their role throughout. First showing us the early “robin-hood” like characters and the latter co-option of these very myths in modern politics. Mackay manages to steer clear of glorifying the Mafia and clearly condemns their exploitative and cruel methods while also being sympathetic to the complex social circumstances that give rise to such organisations and allow them to thrive.
Finally, Mackay ends with a look at modern day Sicily, particularly at the refugee crisis. However the final message is one of optimism. This sentiment is subtly delivered throughout the book as the reader is exposed to the positive impact of immigration on Scilly and is left to make their own conclusion regarding the contemporary state of affairs. The author's opinion on the matter is clear, the book ends on a message of hope and unity from the Mayor of Palermo, it seems Sicily may again be a vanguard for better things to come.