Rienzi, the Last of the Roman Tribunes

"Rienzi, the Last of the Roman Tribunes" by Edward Bulwer Lytton is a historical written in the early 19th century. The story is set in 14th century Rome and follows the life of Cola di Rienzi, a passionate young scholar who aspires to reform his city plagued by feuding aristocrats and tyranny. Driven by the political turmoil and personal tragedies around him, Rienzi takes on a monumental role as he fights for the rights of the common people.