"The Betrothed" is a historical novel written by Italian author Alessandro Manzoni in the early 19th century. Set in 17th-century Italy, it tells the story of two lovers, Renzo and Lucia, who face numerous obstacles, including social injustice, war, and disease, as they strive to be together. The novel explores themes of love, faith, and the impact of historical events on individual lives. The narrative is rich in detail, depicting the struggles of the characters against the backdrop of the Plague and the Thirty Years' War. Manzoni's work is considered a cornerstone of Italian literature and has been praised for its deep moral and philosophical insights, as well as its vivid portrayal of the human experience.