An editorial event, published simultaneously all over the world: the second, final volume of The name of the rose‘, an interpretation of Milo Manara of Umberto Eco’s masterpiece. The volume, for Oblomov Edizioni, is the conclusion of a project that lasted years which follows the publication of the first chapter in 2023. Manara, master of contemporary classic comics, signs the comic adaptation of Umberto Eco’s debut novel, 45 years after its first edition and with which he subsequently won the Premio Strega. A precious work that puts on paper three distinct graphic styles that intersect in pursuit of visual perfection.
Each one tells an aspect of Eco’s book: the sculptures, the reliefs of the portals and the wonderful and surreal marginalia that accompany the illuminated books in the library; Adso’s Bildungsroman, with the discovery of sensuality and Woman; the historical story of the Dolcinians, whose themes of poverty of the least, non-homologation, persecuted diversity, dissent are crucial even today.
‘The name of the rose’ by Manara therefore finds its space in the literary ‘matryoshka’ operation of Eco’s book, which is also a book about books, which contain other books: not a superfluous transcription, but a wonderful visual gloss. Years of development to adapt Umberto Eco’s masterpiece. A precious work that tells of our time, the past and its wonders of stone and ink with different graphic styles. In Milan, from today until 15 January 2026 it will also be possible to visit the first full exhibition by the master of comics on Umberto Eco’s masterpiece, at the Volvo Studio in Milan.