Ignorance

Senso tells an intricate tale of passion, regret, hope, comfort, obsession, and most of all ignorance. Ignorance, better known as lack of knowledge, leads to difficulties between Contessa Liva and Remgio. When reminiscing her time with Remgio, Contessa Liva explains, “ I suddenly lost my heart, and surrendered myself to the frenzy of a first blind passion.”(20) Contessa Liva was so easily persuaded by Remigio’s charm, that Remgio noticed this ignorance and was able to easily take advantage of her resources. Remgio continuously asked for large amounts of money often disappearing for a short period of time after the money was given. He once coaxed her into giving him “two thousand five hundred florins”, and when questioned about the money Remigio refuted by stating, “The proof of love is making sacrifices” and saying that she must not really love him if she does not find the money.(33-34) Contessa Liva is blinded by his scheme, only questioning his loyalty a few times until she surprises him for a visit and realizes that he has betrayed her. Once she has uncovered the truth about Remigio, Contessa Liva generates an “idea of revenge.”(45) Contessa Liva pursues revenge by reporting Remigio of desertion, resulting in his execution. Remigio took advantage of Contessa Liva’s ignorance, however ultimately becoming the ignorant one in the end.