Twice-told tales

Twice-Told Tales by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a collection of short stories, first published in 1837 with an expanded edition in 1842. These haunting and thought-provoking tales established Hawthorne as a master of American Gothic literature. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect:

Themes and Settings:

• The stories delve into themes of sin, guilt, isolation, and the weight of the past. Hawthorne often explores these themes within the context of New England history and Puritan culture, creating a unique atmosphere.

Moral Complexity:

• The characters in Twice-Told Tales are not always clear-cut heroes or villains. Hawthorne often portrays characters grappling with moral dilemmas and the consequences of their choices.

Examples of Stories:

• The collection includes a variety of stories, each with its own distinct flavor. Here are a few examples:
  • The Minister's Black Veil: A minister chooses to wear a black veil for the rest of his life, symbolizing the hidden sin present in everyone.
  • The Birth-Mark: A scientist attempts to remove a birthmark from his wife's face, only to discover that the birthmark is a part of her identity.
  • The Fall of the House of Usher: A narrator visits his friend Roderick Usher, who is obsessed with the decay of his family mansion.
  • Young Goodman Brown: A young man ventures into the forest one night and witnesses a witches' sabbath, questioning his own faith and the morality of his community.
  • Rip Van Winkle: A man falls asleep in the Catskill Mountains and wakes up twenty years later to find his world transformed.

Allegory and Symbolism:

• Hawthorne employs allegory and symbolism extensively. Everyday objects and events often carry deeper meanings, reflecting the characters' inner struggles or the themes of the story.

Gothic Elements:

• The stories often incorporate elements of Gothic fiction, such as dark settings, supernatural occurrences, and a sense of mystery and suspense.

Importance of Twice-Told Tales:

• Twice-Told Tales played a significant role in the development of American literature. It established Hawthorne's unique voice and helped pave the way for the exploration of darker themes in American fiction.

Something to Keep in Mind:

• As these are short stories published many years ago, the writing style and cultural references might differ from what contemporary readers are accustomed to. However, the power of Hawthorne's storytelling and the timeless themes explored in the collection continue to resonate with readers today.