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.

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.

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.

Mysterious / Contemplative / Melancholic / Dark / Fantastical

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Marble Faun 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 Marble Faun Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

The Marble Faun Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-10

The Marble Faun Chapters 5-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-19

The Marble Faun Chapters 11-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-23

The Marble Faun Chapters 20-23 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 24-31

The Marble Faun Chapters 24-31 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 32-35

The Marble Faun Chapters 32-35 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 36-45

The Marble Faun Chapters 36-45 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 46-Conclusion

The Marble Faun Chapters 46-Conclusion Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Marble Faun Character Analysis

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Themes

The Marble Faun Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Marble Faun Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Marble Faun Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Marble Faun Essay Topics

The Marble Faun

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Marble Faun?

Reading Age

Book Details