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51 pages 1 hour read

Death Comes for the Archbishop

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1927

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Book Brief

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Willa Cather

Death Comes for the Archbishop

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1927
Book Details
Pages

297

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Mexico Territory • 1850s

Publication Year

1927

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

1150L

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Super Short Summary

Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather follows the lives of Jean-Marie Latour and Joseph Vaillant as they serve as Roman Catholic clergymen in New Mexico, facing various challenges and meeting historical figures while building their ministry. Sensitive topics include depictions of violence, forced removal of Native tribes, and religious tensions.

Contemplative

Serene

Mysterious

Nostalgic

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.3

39,847 ratings

71%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Willa Cather's Death Comes for the Archbishop is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid depiction of the American Southwest, drawing readers into the spiritual and cultural journey of its protagonists. Critics laud its atmospheric setting and contemplative tone. Some find its episodic structure slow and meandering, though many appreciate its meditative pace and depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Death Comes for the Archbishop?

Readers who enjoy exploring the American West's historical and cultural landscape will find Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather compelling. Fans of Cather's evocative prose and themes in My Ántonia or those who appreciate the introspection in Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry will be particularly drawn to this novel’s rich, immersive storytelling.

4.3

39,847 ratings

71%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Father Jean-Marie Latour

A French missionary sent to the Great Lakes region who later becomes the Bishop, and ultimately Archbishop, of the Santa Fe diocese. He's characterized by his devout faith, intellectual pursuits, and reflective nature.

A close companion to Father Latour, he's a lively and sociable priest known for his devotion to the church and the well-being of others. His love for adventure leads him to Colorado during the Gold Rush.

An insightful and knowledgeable Indigenous guide from Pecos Pueblo who shares his wisdom about the land with Fathers Latour and Vaillant. He contributes an Indigenous perspective to their experiences in New Mexico.

A famous frontiersman known for his skills as a scout, guide, and soldier, who aids Father Latour. His mild and humble demeanor adds to his noteworthy reputation in the multicultural New Mexico setting.

A powerful and controversial priest in Taos known for his defiance of ecclesiastical authority and rumored misconduct. He symbolizes the conflicts within the church's historical presence in the region.

A gregarious priest from Albuquerque whose tendency toward overindulgence aligns with the challenges of church leadership in remote New Mexico. His behavior reflects the broader issues facing the church's mission.

Prominent supporters of the church in Santa Fe, with Don Antonio deriving wealth from ranching and Doña Isabella known for her refined background and charm. They aid Father Latour and provide significant support to his mission.

Book Details
Pages

297

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New Mexico Territory • 1850s

Publication Year

1927

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

1150L

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