Luigi Pirandello's rich collection of short stories stands in the tradition of the Italian novella since Boccaccio and simultaneously features brilliant examples of modern prose. This volume brings together ten previously untranslated stories that capture life in Pirandello's chosen home of Rome—sometimes ironic, sometimes melancholic, always profound and with surprising twists. Pirandello presents the reader with Italian society, its characters, depths, and longings. As his stories take unexpected turns, they also challenge our conventional notions. Thus, despite their narrative charm, they become philosophical miniatures that revolve around happiness and misfortune, personal identity, and the greatness and baseness of humanity, drawing the reader into their contemplative games.