46 pages • 1 hour read
Benito Cereno
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Book Brief
160
Novella • Fiction
Coast Of Chile • 1790s
1855
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In "Benito Cereno," Captain Amasa Delano encounters a distressed Spanish ship, the San Dominick, and its visibly ill Captain Benito Cereno along the coast of Chile in 1799. Delano observes unsettling dynamics between the few Spanish sailors and numerous enslaved Black individuals aboard. Amid suspicious interactions and distressing incidents, Delano endeavors to comprehend the ship’s predicament. The story involves depictions of racism and enslavement, along with outdated and offensive terms for Black individuals.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Unnerving
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
9,303 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Herman Melville's Benito Cereno is lauded for its intricate narrative and profound social commentary on slavery and human nature. Critics appreciate its suspenseful and thought-provoking plot. However, some find its dense prose challenging and the pacing slow. Overall, it remains a compelling and insightful read, reflecting Melville's literary prowess.
Who Should Read Benito Cereno?
Readers who enjoy Herman Melville’s Benito Cereno typically appreciate complex narratives, maritime settings, and explorations of slavery and morality. Fans of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness or Nathaniel Hawthorne’s works would find this novella compelling due to its dark themes and psychological depth.
9,303 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Benito Cereno
Benito Cereno
The Chilean captain of the San Dominick who is initially perceived as ill and distressed. His behavior and relationship with his servant Babo raise suspicions for Delano.
Babo
Babo
An enslaved man on the San Dominick who is initially seen as a loyal servant. He plays a significant and complex role in the events on the ship.
Atufal
Atufal
A tall and imposing secondary character who was once a king in Africa. He appears in chains and serves as a silent, enigmatic figure.
Alexandro Aranda
Alexandro Aranda
The childhood friend of Benito Cereno and the enslaver on the San Dominick. His presence looms over the narrative despite his death prior to the novella’s events.
160
Novella • Fiction
Coast Of Chile • 1790s
1855
Adult
18+ years
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