In 1860s Sicily, Prince Don Fabrizio Salina grapples with the sweeping changes brought about by the unification of Italy. As the aristocracy faces decline, he observes the shifting political landscape, understanding that the old ways of nobility are giving way to emerging democratic principles. His pragmatic nephew, Tancredi, joins the rebellion led by Giuseppe Garibaldi, hoping to secure a place within the new order. Despite his skepticism about the future, Don Fabrizio seeks to ensure his family's relevance and stability by arranging strategic alliances, including a marriage between Tancredi and the beautiful, spirited Angiola Sedara, daughter of a wealthy but unscrupulous mayor.

As societal transformations intensify, Don Fabrizio navigates these upheavals with a mix of resignation and resolve, symbolizing the end of an era. He attends a grand ball that juxtaposes the splendor of the past with the uncertainties of the future, highlighting the intricate interplay between personal aspirations and historical forces. Throughout the narrative, themes of power, tradition, and adaptation underscore the profound impact of socio-political change on individual lives and the broader cultural fabric. The prince's introspective journey reflects the complexities of transitioning from a world rooted in nobility to one propelled by democratic ideals and pragmatism.