The Conformist

work by Moravia

Also known as: “Il conformista”

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June 24, 2026

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"The Conformist" is a 1951 novel by Italian author Alberto Moravia. Moravia was a prominent 20th-century Italian writer known for exploring themes of social alienation and loveless sexuality in his works.1

"The Conformist" is described as a study of isolation and alienation, common themes in Moravia's writing. The term "conformist" itself refers to someone who follows or enforces prevailing standards and customs, opposing unconventional thinking or behavior. Moravia's novels often depicted emotional emptiness and the futility of seeking escape through relationships or promiscuity.21

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Italian literature
Other writings
Agostino), Il conformista (1951; The Conformist), and La noia (1960; “The Tedium”; Eng. trans. Empty Canvas) stand out as particular achievements. Soldati, in works such as Le lettere da Capri (1953; The Capri Letters) and Le due città (1964; “The Two Cities”)—and in a later novel, L’incendio (1981; “The…
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Agostino), Il conformista (1951; The Conformist), and La noia (1960; “The Tedium”; Eng. trans. Empty Canvas) stand out as particular achievements. Soldati, in works such as Le lettere da Capri (1953; The Capri Letters) and Le due città (1964; “The Two Cities”)—and in a later novel, L’incendio (1981; “The…
Read More