The Name of the Rose

William of Baskerville and his novice, Adso of Melk, arrive at a Benedictine abbey in Northern Italy. They are welcomed into a complex environment filled with mystery, where tensions are high due to recent disturbing events.

The abbey is dealing with the aftermath of a young illuminator's apparent suicide. William seeks permission from the Abbot to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unsettling event, which coincides with a significant theological Church conference.

While William delves into the mystery, more unusual deaths occur within the abbey, prompting him to dig deeper into the dark secrets hidden within its walls. The increasing fatalities create an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among the inhabitants.

William and Adso meet Salvatore, a hunchback who communicates in fragmented languages. Salvatore's mention of a penitenziagite raises William's suspicions about a connection between the recent murders and potential heretical beliefs.

Adso interacts with a peasant girl who has infiltrated the abbey, trading sexual favors for food. This encounter becomes a significant moment in Adso's life, marking a painful transition away from innocence and affecting his understanding of love.

William and Adso explore a concealed library within the abbey, discovering it to be one of the greatest collections in all Christendom. Containing lost works, particularly Aristotle’s writings, this library is shrouded in secrecy and conflict.

The investigation takes a turn with the arrival of Bernardo Gui, an Inquisition representative. Eager to impose his version of justice, Gui clashes with William, dismissing his investigative methods and accusing others of heresy.

Gui presses Salvatore and others into false confessions during a tribunal, showcasing his willingness to manipulate justice. William, reluctantly part of the panel, challenges the unfounded accusations, attempting to reveal the truth.

William confronts Jorge, the oldest inhabitant of the abbey, who possesses the book that poses a philosophical threat. Jorge's belief that humor is a devilish tool leads to a dramatic confrontation over the dangerous knowledge contained within.

In a desperate act, Jorge ignites the library, leading to a catastrophic fire. William tries to save the invaluable texts but is forced to flee, witnessing the destruction of knowledge and the loss of the Poetics, among others.

Amidst the chaos from the library fire, Salvatore and Remigio are executed, showcasing the brutal consequences of the Inquisition's actions. The peasant girl is saved by local villagers who rise against Bernardo Gui.

As the villagers revolt, Gui meets his demise when his wagon is overturned by the enraged mob. This incident marks a significant turn in the power dynamics of the abbey and symbolizes the collapse of Gui's authority.

In a poignant moment, Adso is torn between staying with the peasant girl and continuing his journey with William. Ultimately, despite the emotional pull, he chooses to leave, signifying a departure from his youthful desires.

In later years, Adso reflects on his experiences and the profound wisdom gained from William. He concludes that he has never regretted his decision to leave the abbey, recognizing the girl as a pivotal figure in his life, despite never knowing her name.