Hangsaman

Shirley Jackson
41 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Adult
Published in 1951

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Book Brief

Shirley Jackson

Hangsaman

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1951
Book Details
Pages

225

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Horror & Suspense

Classic Fiction

Gothic Literature
Setting

New England • 1950s

Theme
Fear

Loneliness

Mental Health
Publication Year

1951

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Hangsaman follows Natalie Waite, a young person navigating late adolescence. As Natalie starts college, she experiences internal and external conflicts, grappling with identity and isolation. The novel delves into themes of psychological turmoil and the complexities of finding one's place in the world.

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.8

13,125 ratings

63%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Hangsaman by Shirley Jackson is praised for its intricate psychological depth and exploration of identity. Readers appreciate Jackson's atmospheric writing and complex protagonist. However, some find the narrative disjointed and challenging to follow. Its strength lies in the compelling depiction of a young woman's internal struggles.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Hangsaman?

A reader who appreciates Hangsaman by Shirley Jackson likely enjoys psychological depth, themes of identity, and unsettling atmospheres. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or The Haunting of Hill House by Jackson herself may find similar allure in its exploration of a young woman's descent into a surreal reality.

3.8

13,125 ratings

63%

Loved it

28%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

The 17-year-old protagonist, navigating her transition from a stifling home environment to a challenging college experience. Her imaginative and artistic nature provides both refuge and complication as she struggles with her sense of identity.

An enigmatic college student who is implied to be an alter-ego of Natalie, embodying the confidence and assertiveness that she lacks. Tony plays a crucial role in Natalie's psychological journey and sense of self-discovery.

Natalie's domineering father, an intellectually imposing writer who exerts psychological control over his family. His morning "tutorials" serve to undermine Natalie’s confidence and perpetuate patriarchal dominance.

Natalie’s mother, who is trapped in an unhappy marriage and turns to alcohol to cope with her powerlessness. Her fragmented communication and emotional struggles serve as a cautionary tale for Natalie.

The young wife of Professor Arthur Langdon, representing a former student absorbed into a constrictive marital role. Her loneliness and social challenges are a poignant illustration of gender and class hierarchies.

An English professor who reflects patriarchal authority under the guise of mentorship. He is neglectful and emotionally abusive, particularly toward his wife, Elizabeth.

Wealthy and confident college students who embody the oppressive social hierarchy. Their privileged status allows them to enforce conformity and maintain social boundaries.

A fellow college outcast who initially seeks a bond with Natalie. Her later shift to popularity highlights the superficiality of the social system Natalie rejects.

Book Details
Pages

225

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Horror & Suspense

Classic Fiction

Gothic Literature
Setting

New England • 1950s

Theme
Fear

Loneliness

Mental Health
Publication Year

1951

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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