| Author |
Hawthorne, Nathaniel, 1804-1864 |
| Title |
The Hall of Fantasy (From "Mosses from an Old Manse")
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| Note |
Reading ease score: 64.5 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
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| Credits |
David Widger and Al Haines
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| Summary |
"The Hall of Fantasy" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a philosophical exploration written in the mid-19th century. This work, which can be categorized as a philosophical essay or allegorical narrative, delves into the realms of imagination and the nature of reality. Set against a backdrop reminiscent of a fantastical hall filled with creative and whimsical characters, it invites readers to reflect on the importance of dreams and the interplay between fantasy and actual life. The narrative unfolds as the protagonist enters a grand hall filled with imaginative figures from literature and art, engaging in discussions about the essence of creativity and idealism. Hawthorne paints a vivid portrait of a space where individuals can escape the mundane aspects of life, seeking solace in creativity and thought. As the protagonist converses with a friend, they reflect on the nature of various dreamers present, including poets, inventors, and reformers, and how they articulate their visions and theories. Through these encounters, the text presents a meditation on the value of imagination, the sometimes blurry distinction between fantasy and reality, and the necessity for a balance between creative pursuits and the tangible world. Ultimately, Hawthorne suggests that while living in a world of ideals can inspire progress, it is equally important to remain grounded in reality. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
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| Language |
English |
| LoC Class |
PS: Language and Literatures: American and Canadian literature
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| Subject |
Short stories
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| Subject |
New England -- Social life and customs -- Fiction
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| Category |
Text |
| EBook-No. |
9226 |
| Release Date |
Nov 1, 2005 |
| Most Recently Updated |
Nov 9, 2022 |
| Copyright Status |
Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads |
74 downloads in the last 30 days. |
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