35 pages • 1 hour read
The Human Stain
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Book Brief
361
Novel • Fiction
Massachusetts • 1990s
2000
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Human Stain by Philip Roth, narrator Nathan Zuckerman recounts the story of his neighbor, Coleman Silk, a retired classics professor who resigns in disgrace after being accused of racism for using a term with racial connotations. Silk later starts an affair with a much younger woman, Faunia Farley. The affair arouses suspicions and tensions, eventually leading to tragic violence. Racism, interpersonal betrayal, and death are explored throughout the narrative.
Challenging
Melancholic
Dark
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
43,513 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Philip Roth's The Human Stain is lauded for its complex exploration of identity, secrets, and societal judgment, told through eloquent prose. Critics praise its depth and cultural commentary. However, some find it dense and its protagonist unsympathetic. Overall, the provocative themes and insightful narrative make it a compelling, though challenging, read.
Who Should Read The Human Stain?
A reader who would enjoy The Human Stain by Philip Roth likely appreciates intricate character studies, explorations of identity, and themes of social criticism. Similar to fans of Toni Morrison's Beloved and Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man, they value thought-provoking narratives that delve into race, guilt, and redemption.
43,513 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Faunia Farley
Faunia Farley
A janitor at Athena College and a local dairy farm worker, who is the ex-wife of a Vietnam veteran and has had a tumultuous past. She forms a significant relationship with Coleman Silk.
Nathan Zuckerman
Nathan Zuckerman
The narrator of the novel, who lives next door to Coleman Silk. He is a writer who becomes involved in uncovering the truth about Coleman's story.
Lester Farley
Lester Farley
Faunia's abusive ex-husband and a Vietnam War veteran suffering from PTSD. He plays a significant role in Faunia's ongoing difficulties.
Delphine Roux
Delphine Roux
A professor at Athena College with a complicated relationship with Coleman Silk. Her actions contribute to the tension surrounding Coleman's scandal.
Steena Palsson
Steena Palsson
Coleman's first love during his time as a student at NYU. Their relationship ends after Coleman reveals a crucial part of his identity to her.
Herb Keble
Herb Keble
A political science professor at Athena College and the first African American professor there, hired by Coleman Silk.
Nelson Primus
Nelson Primus
Coleman's lawyer, who assists him with legal matters related to the turmoil at Athena College.
Smoky Hollenbeck
Smoky Hollenbeck
The head of the physical plant at Athena College and Faunia's boss, who has an affair with Faunia until he ends it due to external pressures.
Iris (Gittelman) Silk
Iris (Gittelman) Silk
Coleman's wife, whose death occurs amid the fallout of the scandal at Athena College and who never learned about Coleman's full background.
Lisa, Mark, Jeffrey, and Michael Silk
Lisa, Mark, Jeffrey, and Michael Silk
The children of Coleman and Iris Silk, who vary in their responses to their father's later life choices and relationships.
Ernestine Calpurnia Silk
Ernestine Calpurnia Silk
Coleman's sister, whose presence at his funeral plays a crucial role in revealing aspects of Coleman's background.
Walter Antony Silk
Walter Antony Silk
Coleman's brother, who enforces the separation between Coleman and their mother due to Coleman's identity decisions.
361
Novel • Fiction
Massachusetts • 1990s
2000
Adult
18+ years
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