During the end of the 19th century, young Metello decides to start a new life after the sudden loss of his parents. He meets a young girl, Ersilia. They get married and have a son. Metello becomes involved in a political activity at work and is arrested. He then lies that he won't be involved in the activity anymore, and as a result, has to flee town. He arrives at his new destination, and meets a middle-aged school teacher. He then has an affair with her, and as a result, she gives birth to his daughter. Towards the end of the film, Metello realizes that he really belongs back home with Ersilia.