62 pages • 2 hours read
Martin Eden
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Book Brief
480
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco, California • Early 1900s
1909
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Martin Eden by Jack London, a young sailor named Martin Eden saves upper-class Arthur Morse and is introduced to Arthur's cultured world and his sister, Ruth, whom Martin falls in love with. Determined to improve himself for Ruth, Martin self-educates and pursues a writing career but faces significant challenges and rejection. Despite eventual literary success, Martin is disillusioned with fame and struggles with existential despair. The novel examines themes of social class, education, and the emptiness of fame and includes depictions of depression and suicide.
Gritty
Contemplative
Melancholic
Inspirational
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
46,680 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jack London's Martin Eden has been praised for its compelling exploration of individualism and the struggles of self-education. Readers appreciate the protagonist's perseverance and the novel's critique of class disparities. However, some find the narrative bleak and the character of Martin Eden difficult to empathize with at times, detracting from the overall enjoyment.
Who Should Read Martin Eden?
Readers who enjoy introspective explorations of ambition, individualism, and social class will be captivated by Jack London's Martin Eden. Comparable to works like The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger, this novel appeals to those intrigued by the complexities of personal transformation and societal critique.
46,680 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ruth Morse
Ruth Morse
A beautiful and elegant college student from a sheltered upbringing who becomes Martin's love interest, aiding in his education despite her limited understanding of his struggles and aspirations.
Russ Brissenden
Russ Brissenden
A frail but intellectually gifted writer and socialist with whom Martin forms a deep friendship, and who introduces Martin to the bohemian scene in San Francisco.
Lizzie Connolly
Lizzie Connolly
A working-class girl with dark hair and eyes who meets Martin at the theater and remains devoted to him despite the challenges posed by their different societal standings.
Maria Silva
Maria Silva
A hardworking Portuguese widow who, despite her tough exterior, shows kindness to Martin by helping him during times of financial hardship.
480
Novel • Fiction
San Francisco, California • Early 1900s
1909
Adult
18+ years
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