The colorful interpretation of tales of Charlemagne’s knights presented in Sicilian folklore will be the topic of a lecture by Princeton University Professor of Italian Pietro Frassica

The medieval stories of Orlando, Charlemagne’s main knight, known for his gallantry, as well as his astute and rebellious cousin Rinaldo, became a popular subject in Sicily’s opera dei pupi marionette shows in the 18th and 19th centuries. Professor Frassica will discuss the evolution of the tales into folklore for these theatrical events, and how the puppet presentations carried over into the ornately painted narrative decorations of caretti, Sicilian horse- or donkey-drawn wooden carts.

The lecture is free and open to the public; doors open for the program at 4:45 p.m. Seating is limited and programs frequently fill to capacity. Participants are encouraged to bring refreshments to share at the reception following the program.

In case of cancellation of a program due to inclement weather or unexpected reasons, please check the Dorthea House website or call Dorothea’s House for information.