Join author Christine Balint and Professor Katy Barnett for a discussion about the the historical legal and political context around Anna Maria Bonon’s court case and the story behind the successful conviction of her father for sex abuse in 1757.
About the book
It is 1756. In a mountain village outside Venice, 13-year-old Anna Maria Bonon lives with her grandmother and her father, Giacomo. Giacomo is one of the forestieri (outsiders) in the community. When he is arrested for attempted murder, Anna Maria discovers her voice and the courage to tell her story. She walks 29 kilometres to Vicenza and accuses him of rape. The Council of Ten arrive from Venice to investigate.
Challenged by her grandmother and the priest, Anna Maria is torn between loyalty to her elders and telling her truth. Drawing closely on original trial documents from the Venetian archives, prize-winning novelist Christine Balint brings to life a court case unique for its time, with important echoes to the present day.
Free, but bookings are essential.
The event is sponsored by Crittenden Estate.