Inspired by Sicily's archaeological and cultural treasures, this book offers an overview - or perhaps rather an anthology, since a complete survey, if at all possible, would soon become stifling - of the island's history and culture, paying attention not only to ancient and medieval shipwrecks, battles, economy and art, but also to typically Sicilian traditions (from folk-tales and tuna fishing to mafia fighters), modern politics, and the poets, novelists and filmmakers who lived on Sicily or were inspired by its unique character.