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Italy, 1943. Angelo is overjoyed when the armistice is announced. Finally, he can return to his true love in Tuscany. But amidst the destruction of liberation, the cowardly private will find himself fighting not only for the Italian army but also the Germans, and finally the Allies in a witty and compassionate satire on the folly of war.

Angelo and his patron the Count – recently declared dead by the Germans – enjoy the delights of newly-liberated Rome.

Read by Carl Prekopp
Written by Eric Linklater
Abridged by Siân Preece
Produced by Eilidh McCreadie

Orcadian Eric Linklater was a leading author of the 1930s and 40s, who served with the Black Watch in Italy. His unflinching portrayal of the cruelty of war is leavened by his understanding of the motivations of ordinary people swept into conflict, as well as a strong optimism and a genuine love of Italy. ‘Private Angelo’ is part of Radio 4’s programming marking 80 years since VE Day.

A ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Audio Scotland production for ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 4.