Virginia Treves

Born in Verona on March 22, 1849, Virginia Tedeschi-Treves became widely known by her pen name, Cordelia. She came from a Jewish family and grew up in a world closely connected to publishing, which helped open the way to her literary career.

She wrote fiction, essays, and journalism, and is especially remembered for her work for young readers. Her name is strongly linked with Cordelia, the magazine for girls that became an important part of Italian reading culture, and with Il regno della donna, another publication aimed at women.

Tedeschi-Treves died in Milan in 1916. She remains a notable figure in Italian literary and publishing history because she combined storytelling, editorial work, and a strong interest in the education and inner lives of women and girls.