Italian is a Gothic novel by Ann Radcliffe, first published in 1797. The novel tells the story of a young Italian nobleman, Vivaldi, who falls in love with a beautiful woman, Ellena, whom he meets in church. Their love is forbidden, as Ellena is already betrothed to another man. Despite the obstacles, Vivaldi and Ellena are determined to be together, and they elope. However, their happiness is short-lived, as they are pursued by Ellena's vengeful fiancé and his men. Vivaldi and Ellena must overcome many challenges and dangers in order to be together, and their love is tested to the limits.