The Western Canon: The Books and School of the Ages

Harold Bloom

71 pages 2-hour read

Harold Bloom

The Western Canon: The Books and School of the Ages

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1994

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Book Brief

Harold Bloom

The Western Canon

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

546

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Philosophy
Theme
Art

Beauty

Fame
Topic
World History
Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Western Canon, Harold Bloom explores the works that shaped Western literature, discussing influential texts and authors. He examines the criteria for literary greatness and the impact of these works on culture and thought, emphasizing their enduring relevance and significance.

Informative

Contemplative

Challenging

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Harold Bloom's The Western Canon: The Books and School of the Ages is praised for its passionate defense of great literature's enduring value, offering insightful analyses of influential works. However, some critics note its subjective selections and Bloom's occasionally elitist tone. It's recommended for those interested in literature's cultural impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Western Canon?

A reader who enjoys The Western Canon: The Books and School of the Ages by Harold Bloom likely appreciates literature's historical and cultural significance, enjoys critical analysis, and has an interest in classic Western literature. Comparable works include How to Read and Why and The Great Books.

Key Figures

A character from Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," known for her boldness, multiple marriages, and elaborate tales during the pilgrimage. Her personality often defies contemporary stereotypes of women.

Another character from "The Canterbury Tales," who profits from selling indulgences and relics, characterized by his convincing storytelling and moral ambiguity.

The introspective and conflicted prince in Shakespeare's play, who contemplates existential questions and seeks to avenge his father's death.

A nobleman turned knight-errant who, in Cervantes' novel, embarks on adventures to revive chivalry, often mistaking ordinary people and situations for epic foes.

The loyal squire to Don Quixote, who provides a grounding perspective and practical counterpoint to Quixote’s lofty ideals and relentless quests.

The romanticized ideal woman of Don Quixote's affections, who is central to his motivations and gallant exploits.

Both a real-life figure in Dante’s life and an ethereal guide in "The Divine Comedy," embodying divine love and inspiration.

The protagonist of Molière’s "The Misanthrope," known for his disdain for society’s hypocrisy and his candid, often abrasive honesty.

A cunning and manipulative character in Shakespeare’s "Othello," whose deception drives much of the play’s central conflict.

The eloquent and ambitious fallen angel in Milton’s "Paradise Lost," who leads a rebellion in Heaven and embodies hubris and defiance.

A central character in Dickens's "Bleak House," known for her kindness, resilience, and the unfolding mystery of her parentage.

A benevolent and wealthy guardian in "Bleak House," who becomes entwined in an endless legal battle over his family's inheritance.

The insightful and mature protagonist of Austen’s "Persuasion," navigating social pressures and her lingering feelings for a past love.

Anne Elliot’s past love interest in "Persuasion," whose return to the social scene tests unresolved emotions and social dynamics.

A complex character in Ibsen's play of the same name, known for her manipulation, restlessness, and struggle within societal constraints.

The adventurous and often imprudent title character in Ibsen’s play, whose escapades and self-discovery drive the narrative.

The blind and tyrannical character in Beckett's "Endgame," who resides in a post-apocalyptic setting, questioning existence and control.

An enigmatic, unseen character in Beckett's "Waiting for Godot," whose anticipated arrival spurs existential discussions among the waiting characters.

Book Details
Pages

546

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Philosophy
Theme
Art

Beauty

Fame
Topic
World History
Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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