50 pages 1 hour read

William Faulkner

Absalom, Absalom

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1936

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner is a novel set in the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, Mississippi, and explores themes of ambition, tragedy, and legacy through the story of Thomas Sutpen, who arrives in search of wealth and status. The narrative, recounted by Quentin Compson, unfolds through multiple perspectives and timelines, revealing the demise of the Sutpen family amidst the backdrop of socioeconomic upheaval and the Civil War. The book includes references to slavery, racial violence, rape, incest, and suicide.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

William Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom! is celebrated for its intricate narrative and profound exploration of themes like family, identity, and the South’s troubled history. However, its dense prose and non-linear structure can be challenging. This novel is a masterwork for those who appreciate complex storytelling, but it may overwhelm casual readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Absalom, Absalom?

A reader who would enjoy Absalom, Absalom by William Faulkner likely appreciates complex narratives and deep explorations of history, family, and Southern Gothic themes. Fans of The Sound and the Fury by Faulkner or Beloved by Toni Morrison may find this intricate tale engaging due to its layered storytelling and rich symbolism.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

Historical Fiction

Southern Literature

Period

Southern Gothic

American Civil War

Themes

Relationships: Family

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Identity: Race

Topics

History: World