"“Mateo Falcone” is a brief, but complex story. It features at least five points of view and at least four “ways of life” (the “moeurs” of the original subtitle). Merimee’s themes include betrayal and honor, savagery and civilization, vendetta and law, and custom and morality. Most importantly, “Mateo Falcone” exemplifies the art of storytelling at its most concentrated and allusive. Most critics consider the story disturbing and unforgettable." --from encyclopedia.com.