Abstract

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the importance of literature in both the inspiration and the construction of Renato Castellani's films. Starting from a wide series of Castellani's handwritten notes and unrealized projects, the author has selected several documents which better represent the relationship between Castellani and «Universal Literature» (Weltliteratur): on the one hand, the making of a film by rewriting novels; and on the other hand, the fondness Castellani felt for themes and motives, such as young heroes, hopeless lovers and deluded dreamers.