Launched with great success – over 950 attendees – by Vito Mancuso, who offered an unprecedented portrait of Jesus, the second edition of “History Lessons”, an initiative conceived by Editori Laterza and produced in co-production with the Fondazione Teatro Donizetti and with the support of Cassa Lombarda, continues on Saturday, February 1st at Teatro Donizetti (11:00 am) with another historical figure, well aligned with the theme of “Rebels”, chosen this year for the series: Cleopatra. Cleopatra: the queen enemy of Rome is indeed the title of the lesson by Francesca Cenerini, professor of Roman History and Epigraphy and Roman Institutions at the University of Bologna. The history of Rome intersects not only with the life of the last queen of the Ptolemaic dynasty and the destinies of Egypt, but also with the histories of Palestine, Africa, and Asia. It marks the beginning of a season that will have a significant impact on the culture and tastes of the Romans. Francesca Cenerini has focused her studies in the field of Ancient History. Her research interests are particularly directed towards the representation of the female condition in Roman times, through the analysis of historiographic and epigraphic documentation. This research has produced two monographs and numerous articles published in journals and essays in volumes. She has collaborated on many initiatives aimed at the public communication of her research, collaborating with high-profile magazines and cultural initiatives. She is the author of

The Roman Woman. Models and realities (Il Mulino, 2013) and Messalina. Legend and history of a dangerous woman (Laterza, 2024).

The “History Lessons” will then continue with Maria Giuseppina Muzzarelli, who will recall the historical figure, charisma, and complex personality of Joan of Arc (February 8); with Luigi Mascilli Migliorini, who will offer a deep reflection on Robespierre, at the heart of the French Revolution (February 15); and finally with Loris Zanatta, who will present Fidel Castro and his revolutionary “political religion” (March 1). All meetings will be introduced by journalist Max Pavan, head of information at Bergamo TV. Tickets 10 Euros, with a reduction for schools to 8 Euros. At the end of the meetings, the authors will stay with the audience for a book signing at the Ridotto Gavazzeni of the Theater.