Alessandro Manzoni

Alessandro Manzoni (1785–1873) was an Italian poet and writer. Born in Milan, he spent several years in Paris before returning to Italy. His works include religious hymns, historical dramas, and the historical novel *I promessi sposi* (*The Betrothed*), published in 1827 and regarded as his best-known work. In later life, he devoted himself increasingly to historical and linguistic studies and received several royal honors. Giuseppe Verdi composed his Requiem in Manzoni’s memory.