Jeffrey Eugenides' The Virgin Suicides captivates with its haunting prose and evocative atmosphere, immersing readers in a suburban tragedy told through the eyes of a group of boys. Critics praise its lyrical style and exploration of youth and obsession. However, some find the narrative's detachment and discomforting subject matter challenging. Nevertheless, it remains a poignant, memorable read.

A reader of The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides would appreciate melancholic and lyrical prose, exploring themes of adolescence, suburban life, and tragedy. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or White Oleander by Janet Fitch would find similar depth and introspection in this haunting, character-driven narrative.

In the 1970s, a group of men recalls their teenage years when they were infatuated with the five Lisbon sisters, who lived a restrictive life due to their religious mother and passive father, and who all eventually died by suicide. The boys, who idolized the sisters, witnessed their struggles, their isolation from the community, and their eventual tragic ends, leaving the reasons for their actions shrouded in mystery.

Melancholic / Mysterious / Nostalgic / Bittersweet / Dark

- The Virgin Suicides was the debut novel of Jeffrey Eugenides and was published in 1993.
- The story is set in a Detroit suburb that mirrors the real-life Grosse Pointe neighborhood where Eugenides grew up.
- In 1999, Sofia Coppola adapted the novel into a critically acclaimed film of the same name, featuring Kirsten Dunst in a leading role.

Jeffrey Eugenides

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Novel

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Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Virgin Suicides 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 Virgin Suicides Summary

Background

The Virgin Suicides Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 1 The Virgin Suicides Chapter 1 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 2 The Virgin Suicides Chapter 2 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 3 The Virgin Suicides Chapter 3 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 4 The Virgin Suicides Chapter 4 Summary & Analysis

Chapter 5 The Virgin Suicides Chapter 5 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Virgin Suicides Character Analysis

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Themes

The Virgin Suicides Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Virgin Suicides Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Virgin Suicides Important Quotes

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The Virgin Suicides

Before You Read

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