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Rossella Serao's 'Donna Matilde' Explores the Pioneering Feminism of Matilde Serao

publication · 2026-09-07

Rossella Serao's new book, "Donna Matilde," released by Edizioni Fondazione AIMC in 2023, delves into the life of Matilde Serao, a trailblazer in Italian journalism. Born in Ventaroli, Carinola, in 1856, Matilde was the first woman to establish and co-found significant newspapers such as "Il Mattino" and "Il Giorno." A prolific author, she is known for works like "Il ventre di Napoli." The book portrays her as a symbol of female empowerment and solidarity. Antonia De Francesco reviewed the book for MIfacciodiCultura, with initial publication on Artspecialday.

Key facts

  • Rossella Serao's book 'Donna Matilde' was published by Edizioni Fondazione AIMC in 2023.
  • Matilde Serao (1856-1927) was the first woman to found and co-found major Italian newspapers, including 'Il Mattino' and 'Il Giorno'.
  • She was also a prolific writer, author of 'Il ventre di Napoli'.
  • Matilde Serao was a journalist, entrepreneur, and mother of five children.
  • She was born in Ventaroli, Carinola (Caserta), and moved to Naples.
  • She married Edoardo Scarfoglio and later Giuseppe Natale, both younger than her.
  • Gabrielle Bressard, Scarfoglio's mistress, committed suicide at the Scarfoglio-Serao home after giving birth; Matilde Serao assisted her and adopted her daughter, naming her Paolina.
  • The book presents Matilde Serao as an icon of equal opportunities and female solidarity.
  • The book was reviewed by Antonia De Francesco for MIfacciodiCultura and first published on Artspecialday.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Edizioni Fondazione AIMC
  • Il Mattino
  • Il Giorno
  • MIfacciodiCultura
  • Artspecialday

Locations

  • Ventaroli
  • Carinola
  • Caserta
  • Naples
  • Italy

Sources