50 pages • 1 hour read
William FaulknerAbsalom, Absalom
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1936A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Absalom, Absalom! by William Faulkner is a novel set in the fictional Yoknapatawpha County, Mississippi, and explores themes of ambition, tragedy, and legacy through the story of Thomas Sutpen, who arrives in search of wealth and status. The narrative, recounted by Quentin Compson, unfolds through multiple perspectives and timelines, revealing the demise of the Sutpen family amidst the backdrop of socioeconomic upheaval and the Civil War. The book includes references to slavery, racial violence, rape, incest, and suicide.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
William Faulkner’s Absalom, Absalom! is celebrated for its intricate narrative and profound exploration of themes like family, identity, and the South’s troubled history. However, its dense prose and non-linear structure can be challenging. This novel is a masterwork for those who appreciate complex storytelling, but it may overwhelm casual readers.
Who Should Read Absalom, Absalom?
A reader who would enjoy Absalom, Absalom by William Faulkner likely appreciates complex narratives and deep explorations of history, family, and Southern Gothic themes. Fans of The Sound and the Fury by Faulkner or Beloved by Toni Morrison may find this intricate tale engaging due to its layered storytelling and rich symbolism.