Lusitania: Canti popolari portoghesi

These pages bring together a rich tapestry of Portuguese folk poetry, ranging from the lyrical romances that echo the Iberian tradition to lively ballads, mournful elegies, and witty satirical pieces. The translator worked from 19th‑century sources, preserving the original octosyllabic lines and the characteristic assonances that give the songs their distinctive musicality. Helpful notes explain obscure references, regional variants, and the historical context in which these verses were sung.

The collection offers listeners a glimpse into the everyday lives, loves, and legends of Portugal’s past, with each piece rendered into clear, flowing Italian while retaining the rhythm of the original. Annotations guide the ear through the subtle differences between even‑lined and odd‑lined verses, and highlight forms such as the dramatic xacaras and the seasonal couplets. Whether you are a lover of folk traditions or simply enjoy poetic storytelling, this anthology invites you to hear the voice of a nation preserved in song.