Set in Italy in 1327, The Name of the Rose follows the Franciscan monk William of Baskerville and his novice Adso von Melk as they arrive at a secluded monastery in the Alps. There they become witnesses to a series of mysterious murders. While Baskerville and Melk investigate and search for the killer, they are hunted themselves by the merciless inquisitor Bernard Gui, who prosecutes those who criticize the pope.