27 pages • 54 minutes read
Ourika
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Book Brief
65
Novella • Fiction
Paris, France • Early 19th century
1823
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Ourika by Claire de Duras tells the story of a Senegalese woman taken as an infant to France, where she is raised in high society by Madame la Maréchale de Beauvau and forms a close bond with her grandson, Charles. At 15, Ourika realizes the racial prejudice she faces, leading to deep depression and feelings of isolation, ultimately finding solace in a convent before succumbing to her illness. The novella includes themes of racial segregation and mental illness.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Mysterious
Romantic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
1,508 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ourika by Claire de Duras is praised for its poignant exploration of race, class, and identity in early 19th-century France. The character development and emotional depth are often highlighted as strengths. However, some critics note the narrative's brevity, feeling the story could benefit from more comprehensive development. Overall, it remains a significant, thought-provoking work.
Who Should Read Ourika?
Readers who appreciate Ourika by Claire de Duras are likely drawn to rich character studies, poignant social commentary, and historical narratives. Fans of works like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Jane Austen's Sense and Sensibility may find this novella captivating for its exploration of identity, race, and class in early 19th-century France.
1,508 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Madame la Maréchale de Beauvau (Mme de B.)
Madame la Maréchale de Beauvau (Mme de B.)
Ourika’s surrogate mother and protector, who raises her in an aristocratic environment, shielding her from societal racism while inadvertently contributing to her struggles.
Charles
Charles
Mme de B.’s grandson and Ourika’s closest childhood friend, who faces the dangers of the Reign of Terror and whose marriage to Anaïs distances him from Ourika.
Marquise de ______
Marquise de ______
A blunt woman known for her allegiance to truth, who confronts Mme de B. about Ourika's future and plays a crucial role in revealing harsh realities to Ourika.
Anaïs de Thémines
Anaïs de Thémines
The beautiful and charming friend of Mme de B. who becomes engaged to Charles, representing societal roles such as wife and mother that Ourika cannot attain.
The Doctor
The Doctor
The narrator of the frame story who meets Ourika in her final days and encourages her to share her story in hopes of understanding and alleviating her melancholia.
65
Novella • Fiction
Paris, France • Early 19th century
1823
Adult
18+ years
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