The Birthmark - Enriched edition A Tale of Obsession and Human Nature: Unveiling the Price of Vanity

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Casa editrice: Good Press

Sinossi

In Nathaniel Hawthorne's profound short story "The Birthmark," the author explores the tension between the pursuit of human perfection and the acceptance of inherent flaws. Set against a backdrop of early 19th-century scientific curiosity, the narrative masterfully intertwines gothic elements with a psychological depth that questions the implications of obsessive ambition. Hawthorne's prose, characterized by rich symbolism and evocative imagery, encapsulates the haunting journey of Aylmer, a scientist fixated on eradicating a small birthmark from his wife Georgiana's cheek, viewing it as a blemish on her perceived perfection. This thematic engagement with humanity's relationship to nature and art embodies the transcendental skepticism of the era, situating it firmly within American Romanticism. Nathaniel Hawthorne, an astute observer of the human condition, was profoundly influenced by the Puritan heritage of New England and the burgeoning scientific developments of his time. His own struggles with identity and societal expectations manifest in his characters, making him a poignant commentator on the dilemmas between science, morality, and the essence of true beauty. "The Birthmark" serves as a critique of the Enlightenment's emphasis on rationality over the emotional and inherent imperfections of human existence. This compelling tale is highly recommended for readers seeking a rich exploration of moral complexity and the philosophical questions surrounding the quest for perfection. Hawthorne's insightful narrative not only engages the mind but also stirs the soul, making it a timeless read that resonates with contemporary discussions on self-acceptance and the paradoxes of human nature.

In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes.
- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.
- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing.
- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.
- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.
- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life.
- Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.
- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Disponibile da: 28/12/2023.

Lunghezza di stampa: 50 pagine.

Altri libri che potrebbero interessarti

His Wife's Deceased Sister -...

Frank R Stockton

Frank Richard Stockton was born in Philadelphia on 5th April 1834.  
His father, a Methodist minister, discouraged Stockton’s literary career from an early age.  Feeling unable to go against those wishes it was for many years that Stockton’s income was maintained as a wood engraver.   
His first work was published in 1867 and his first collection only appeared in 1870.  Despite this late arrival Stockton’s innovative and often far-fetched stories, with a gentle ‘poking fun’ humour were very popular.  Like his contemporary Mark Twain he avoided the scolding, hectoring and moral tones of many other authors and instead gently teased and cajoled his reader to open their eyes to the ills, the greed and the ambitions of the world around them.  His sci-fi stories in particular were far-seeing and inventive including a tale of negative gravity and a bloodless Anglo-US war won by technological feats.  
Perhaps his most enduring tale though is ‘The Lady, or the Tiger?’ from 1882.  A condemned man is given a choice of being eaten alive or marrying his princess lover.  But he has to choose which door each is behind. 
Frank R Stockton died in Washington, DC, on 20th April 1902, of a cerebral haemorrhage.  He is buried at The Woodlands in Philadelphia.

Mostra libro

Northanger Abbey

Jane Austen

"Northanger Abbey" is one of Jane Austen's earlier works, published posthumously in 1818. The novel is a coming-of-age story that follows the naive and imaginative Catherine Morland during her adventures in Bath and, later, at the eponymous Northanger Abbey. While the book embraces elements of the Gothic novel—a popular genre of its time—it also satirizes the genre's excesses and the naivety of its young heroine. Themes of social class, wealth, and morality are explored against a backdrop of Regency England manners and mores.

Mostra libro

Descendant The (Unabridged)

H. P. Lovecraft

The Descendant is a story fragment by American horror fiction writer H. P. Lovecraft, believed to have been written in 1927. It was first published in the journal Leaves in 1938, after Lovecraft's death.

Mostra libro

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under...

Jules Verne

When an unidentified "monster" threatens international shipping, French oceanographer Pierre Aronnax and his unflappable assistant Conseil join an expedition organized by the US Navy to hunt down and destroy the menace. After months of fruitless searching, they finally grapple with their quarry, but Aronnax, Conseil, and the brash Canadian harpooner Ned Land are thrown overboard in the attack, only to find that the "monster" is actually a futuristic submarine, the Nautilus, commanded by a shadowy, mystical, preternaturally imposing man who calls himself Captain Nemo.

Mostra libro

Gulliver's Travels into Several...

Jonathan Swift

Dive into the heart of satire with Jonathan Swift's Gulliver's Travels, a timeless masterpiece that has captivated readers for centuries. Beyond the surface of this enchanting tale of shipwrecks and fantastical realms lies a sharp critique of society, politics, and human nature. Through the extraordinary voyages of Lemuel Gulliver, Swift takes us on an adventure to the tiny world of Lilliput, the giant lands of Brobdingnag, and beyond, each a mirror reflecting the absurdities of our own world. 
Swift's brilliant satire has not only defined a genre but also influenced countless works of literature and philosophy. Gulliver's Travels is more than just an adventure story; it’s a profound commentary on the human condition, power, and pride, all delivered with Swift’s signature wit. This edition not only brings the classic tale to life but also includes critical essays that illuminate Swift's enduring relevance and the depth of his critique on the societal constructs of his time and ours. 
Whether you’re drawn to epic tales, intrigued by satire, or seeking insight into humanity's complexities, Gulliver's Travels is an unforgettable journey that promises to entertain, challenge, and provoke thought long after the final page is turned. 
This audiobook was narrated and produced by RAM Studios, where humans and artificial intelligence collaborate to create an excellent listening experience. (The reading is done primarily by AI)

Mostra libro

Sherlock Holmes: The Hound of...

Arthur Conan Doyle, Classic...

The Hound of the Baskervilles is the fifth book in Arthur Conan Doyle's celebrated Sherlock Holmes series. This iconic mystery novel takes readers to the haunting moors of Devonshire, blending Gothic suspense with Holmes' unmatched deductive prowess. Following the mysterious death of Sir Charles Baskerville, his heir, Sir Henry Baskerville, arrives to inherit the family estate. With rumors of a spectral hound terrorizing the Baskerville lineage, Dr. Watson is sent ahead to investigate the foreboding atmosphere at Baskerville Hall. Sherlock Holmes eventually steps in to unravel a web of deceit, danger, and long-buried secrets. First published as a standalone tale after Holmes' supposed death in The Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes, this gripping story cemented his return to the public's imagination and remains a cornerstone of detective fiction.

Mostra libro