39 pages 1 hour read

Henry James

The Aspern Papers

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1888

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Aspern Papers follows an unnamed American editor and fervent admirer of the deceased poet Jeffrey Aspern. He travels to Venice to obtain letters thought to be held by Juliana Bordereau, Aspern's former lover, who resides with her niece, Tita. Pretending interest in renting rooms in their house, he hopes to access the elusive Aspern Papers while navigating complex relationships and moral dilemmas.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Henry James's The Aspern Papers captivates with intricate prose and a compelling exploration of obsession and deception. Critics laud its atmospheric Venice setting and complex characters but note the slow pace may deter some readers. Overall, it's a richly layered novella for those who appreciate literary depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Aspern Papers?

Readers who enjoy psychological intrigue and literary mysteries will find The Aspern Papers by Henry James captivating. Similar to F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, it appeals to those who relish complex characters and themes of obsession, secrecy, and manipulation.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Classic Fiction

Mystery / Crime Fiction

Psychological Fiction

Period

Realism

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Loneliness

Identity: Gender

Life/Time: The Past

Topics

History: World