logo

72 pages 2 hours read

Heptameron

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1558

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Book Brief

logo
Marguerite De Navarre

Heptameron

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1558
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pyrenees, France • 16th century

Publication Year

1558

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Heptameron by Marguerite de Navarre follows ten noble travelers stranded in a Pyrenees abbey by flooding, who pass the time by telling true stories, engaging in daily devotional studies and afternoon storytelling sessions. They cover themes from the lives of nobility to common townspeople, merchants, and clergy, and discuss the moral implications of their tales, influenced by the Renaissance spirit and humanism. The book contains accounts of sexual and scatological humor.

Humorous

Romantic

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

3.8

6 ratings

50%

Loved it

50%

Mixed feelings

0%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Marguerite De Navarre’s Heptameron is widely praised for its intricate storytelling and vivid portrayal of Renaissance society, capturing human nature with humor and insight. Critics admire Navarre's clever narrative structure and engaging characters but note occasional repetitive themes. Overall, this work is valued for its literary innovation and historical significance.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Heptameron?

Readers who enjoy The Decameron and The Canterbury Tales will be delighted by Marguerite de Navarre's Heptameron. It appeals to lovers of Renaissance literature, framed narratives, and tales blending romance, intrigue, and social commentary. Fans of historical storytelling and complex character interactions will find it captivating.

3.8

6 ratings

50%

Loved it

50%

Mixed feelings

0%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pyrenees, France • 16th century

Publication Year

1558

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Continue your reading experience

Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.