the stage for an in-depth historical exploration, beginning with a preface that outlines the authors' intention to integrate Corsican history within the larger context of Mediterranean affairs. They introduce several key themes, including the island's tumultuous political landscape and its role as a pawn in broader geopolitical intrigues. The text also hints at the questions that will be addressed regarding the island's origins and its historical legacy, specifically mentioning influential Corsican figures and the need to critically analyze longstanding legends surrounding them. This introductory portion establishes a thoughtful framework for understanding the complexity of Corsican identity and history as the narrative unfolds. (This is an automatically generated summary.)