44 pages 1 hour read

Nathaniel Hawthorne

The Marble Faun

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1860

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Marble Faun by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a romance set in Rome, following American artists Miriam, Hilda, and Kenyon, and their Italian friend Donatello. Their lives spiral into turmoil after Donatello kills a man stalking Miriam, leading to feelings of guilt and attempts at redemption. Kenyon's love for Hilda unfolds amidst the group's emotional and moral struggles, culminating in a poignant reunion during Carnival festivities.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Marble Faun draws praise for its rich atmospheric descriptions and exploration of themes like sin, guilt, and redemption. However, critiques focus on its convoluted plot and ambiguous ending, which can frustrate readers. The novel's fusion of romance and mystery appeals to some, while others find it meandering and dense.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Marble Faun?

Readers who appreciate classical literature, Gothic romance, and complex moral themes would enjoy Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Marble Faun. Fans of Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë and The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde will find similar enchantment in Hawthorne’s exploration of innocence, sin, and art.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

Romance

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Topics

Arts / Culture

History: World

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Guilt

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Life/Time: The Past