The ideal reader for Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep enjoys hardboiled detective fiction filled with sharp dialogue, complex plots, and gritty atmospheres. Fans of Dashiell Hammett's The Maltese Falcon or James M. Cain's The Postman Always Rings Twice will appreciate Chandler's iconic private investigator, Philip Marlowe.

Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep is highly praised for its sharp dialogue, complex plot, and vivid characterizations, especially of detective Philip Marlowe. However, some readers find the intricate storyline initially confusing. Overall, Chandler sets a high standard for the crime noir genre with his atmospheric and engaging writing.

Published in 1939, The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler follows detective Philip Marlowe, hired by wealthy General Sternwood to negotiate with a blackmailer targeting his daughter. As Marlowe delves deeper, he uncovers murder, corruption, and dark family secrets, set against the atmospheric backdrop of Los Angeles, showcasing Chandler's mastery in the noir genre. The novel contains derogatory language and descriptions of violence.

Mysterious / Dark / Gritty / Suspenseful / Challenging

Raymond Chandler

Adult

Novel

Philip Marlowe

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Big Sleep and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Big Sleep Summary

Background

The Big Sleep Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1-Chapter 7

The Big Sleep Chapter 1-Chapter 7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-13

The Big Sleep Chapters 8-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-19

The Big Sleep Chapters 14-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-32

The Big Sleep Chapters 20-32 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Big Sleep Character Analysis

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Themes

The Big Sleep Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Big Sleep Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Big Sleep Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Big Sleep Essay Topics

The Big Sleep

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Big Sleep?

Reading Age

Book Details