Summary of The Story of San Michele
“The Story of San Michele” is the memoir of Axel Munthe, the Swedish physician, author and philanthropist who became one of the most widely read writers of the early twentieth century. In this book, Munthe recounts how he purchased a ruined chapel on the Italian island of Capri — built on the remains of an ancient Roman villa — and transformed it into Villa San Michele. The book is written as a series of vignettes. Alongside the story of restoring the villa, Munthe reflects on his medical practice in Paris, Rome and Naples, including his experiences during a devastating cholera epidemic in Naples. He also recalls encounters with prominent cultural and scientific figures of the era, including Henry James, Guy de Maupassant and Louis Pasteur.
Reasons to read The Story of San Michele
First published in 1929, Munthe’s memoir “The Story of San Michele” became an international bestseller and was translated into numerous languages. Nearly a century later, it remains an engaging read for those fascinated by Capri’s history, the intellectual atmosphere of early twentieth-century Europe, and the practice of medicine in an era before the widespread use of antibiotics.
Setting: Capri (Italy)
Primarily set at Villa San Michele in Anacapri (Capri), with additional scenes in Paris, Rome, Naples and Sweden. Villa San Michele can still be visited today. Visitors can explore Munthe’s collection of artworks and antiquities, visit the bird sanctuary, stroll through the garden (often described as one of the most beautiful in Italy), enjoy panoramic views across the Bay of Naples, or attend cultural events and exhibitions.
Original title: The Story of San Michele
Year of publication: 1929
Nr of pages: 368
