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55 pages 1 hour read

A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1768

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Book Brief

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Laurence Sterne

A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1768
Book Details
Pages

116

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France, Italy • 1760s

Theme
Publication Year

1768

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy by Laurence Sterne follows Reverend Mr. Yorick as he travels from Britain to France and eventually to Italy, encountering various characters and experiences that evoke reflections on humanity, kindness, and society. The journey includes interactions with a monk, a young woman, aristocrats, and a grieving girl named Maria, ultimately blending humor, sentiment, and introspection.

Humorous

Romantic

Playful

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Reviews for A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy by Laurence Sterne highlight its witty, humorous narrative and pioneering stream-of-consciousness style. Critics praise its character-driven storytelling and emotional depth. Negative comments mention its fragmented plot and occasional lack of cohesion. Overall, it's celebrated for its innovation and charm.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy?

Ideal for readers who enjoy witty, reflective travel narratives and character-driven stories, A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy by Laurence Sterne appeals to fans of Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift and Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes. Rich in satire and emotion, it's perfect for those who appreciate nuanced social critique and historical context.

Character List

Yorick

The narrator and main character, a travel writer often seen as a fictionalized version of Laurence Sterne, known for his wit, confidence, and flirtatious interactions as he explores France and Italy.

Yorick's servant and travel companion, offering a contrasting personality through his genuine charm and serving as a cultural guide in France, providing insight into local customs.

A character introduced through Yorick's recounting of stories about her, symbolizing sentiment and grief, and evoking a poignant emotional response that contrasts with the novel's usual humor.

Book Details
Pages

116

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France, Italy • 1760s

Theme
Publication Year

1768

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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