36 pages • 1 hour read
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336
Novel • Fiction
Iceland • 1820s
2013
Adult
18+ years
Burial Rites by Hannah Kent, based on the true story of the last woman publicly executed in Iceland, follows Agnes Magnusdottir, a servant sentenced to death for the murder of two men, including her lover and employer. As Agnes awaits execution at a government official’s house, she seeks spiritual counsel, revealing her past and raising questions of her guilt. The narrative shifts between characters' perspectives, including the family's evolving view of Agnes and the relentless District Commissioner's determination to carry out her sentence.
Dark
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Emotional
131,996 ratings
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Burial Rites by Hannah Kent has garnered praise for its evocative prose and meticulous historical detail, immersing readers in 19th-century Iceland. Critics commend Kent's ability to elicit empathy for her characters, particularly Agnes Magnúsdóttir. However, some find the pacing slow and the narrative bleak. Overall, it is lauded for its atmospheric storytelling and emotional depth.
A reader captivated by the haunting beauty of historical fiction and the intimate exploration of complex characters would enjoy Burial Rites by Hannah Kent. Fans of Margaret Atwood’s Alias Grace or Diane Setterfield’s The Thirteenth Tale will appreciate the atmospheric storytelling and emotional depth.
131,996 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Assistant Reverend Thorvardur “Toti” Jonsson
A recently trained young priest called upon to provide spiritual guidance to Agnes, whose unconventional methods build a meaningful rapport with her.
District Commissioner Bjorn Blondal
A local official responsible for ensuring justice is served, known for his bureaucratic and dispassionate approach to Agnes's case.
Margret Jonsson
The wife of district officer Jon Jonsson, who transitions from initial suspicion to a supportive figure for Agnes during her stay with their family.
Jon Jonsson
The District Officer of Vatnsdalur and Margret's husband, tasked with housing Agnes and initially skeptical of her presence before warming to her.
Steina
The elder daughter of Margret and Jon, who shows a keen interest in Agnes's story and medical skills, quickly becoming friendly and supportive.
Lauga
Margret and Jon's younger yet more serious daughter, who initially distrusts Agnes but grows to understand her better as the story progresses.
Roslin
A neighbor known for her suspicions and rumor-spreading about Agnes until a turning event involving her breech baby changes her perception.
Natan Ketilsson
Agnes's former employer and complex lover, known for his herbalist work and a volatile disposition that affects those around him.
Sigridir “Sigga” Gudmundsdottir
A young lover of Natan and friend to Agnes, whose innocence and youth play a pivotal role in her interactions and fate.
Fridrik Sigurdsson
A young farmer with a bold demeanor and ambitions, whose actions are deeply intertwined with the story’s central events surrounding Natan.
336
Novel • Fiction
Iceland • 1820s
2013
Adult
18+ years
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