Cruelty and Suffering

The narrative highlights both human and animal suffering, from Gian-Luca's childhood sorrows to the brutal treatment of farm animals by peasants, and his haunting encounter with a blind beggar child.

The sorrow of losing their wives and the shame Fabio carries are acknowledged through their silent, kind gestures.

Gian-Luca's visceral reaction to the dead kids highlights the innocent perception of suffering and death, contrasting with the adults' normalized view of butchery.

Teresa's emotional coldness and refusal to respond to Gian-Luca's affection or even his violent outbursts inflict a subtle cruelty, causing him deep psychological suffering.

Gian-Luca's naughtiness includes tormenting Rosa and pinching her dog Berta, and his visceral horror at the butcher shop reflects an awareness of suffering.