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138
Novel • Fiction
London • Early 20th Century
1908
Adult
16+ years
The Man Who Was Thursday is a thriller novel by G.K. Chesterton in which detective Gabriel Syme infiltrates an anarchist council in Edwardian London, only to discover that all members, except the enigmatic leader Sunday, are undercover detectives. The story explores themes of order vs. chaos as the detectives pursue Sunday, leading to a surreal and philosophical climax.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Humorous
Fantastical
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G. K. Chesterton's The Man Who Was Thursday receives praise for its witty prose, imaginative plot, and philosophical depth. Readers admire its blend of mystery, fantasy, and theological themes. However, some find the narrative's surreal twists confusing and its conclusion unsatisfying. Overall, it remains a thought-provoking and intriguing read.
Readers who enjoy thought-provoking mysteries, philosophical puzzles, and allegorical storytelling will appreciate G. K. Chesterton's The Man Who Was Thursday. Similar in appeal to Kafka’s The Trial and Orwell’s 1984, this novel captivates those intrigued by surreal narratives that explore themes of anarchy, identity, and order.
44,869 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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Lucian Gregory
Lucian Gregory is a dark-red-haired anarchist with a fiery personality, serving as an antagonist and facilitating Syme's infiltration into the anarchist movement. He is characterized by his hatred for society and desire to destroy the world.
Sunday
Sunday is a large, white-haired figure who paradoxically presides over the Central Anarchist Council and plays a pivotal role in the detectives’ journey. Both authoritative and enigmatic, his presence dominates every scene.
The Secretary/Monday
The Secretary, also known as Monday, is the first council member Syme meets, recognizable by his intellectual visage and sinister smile. His identity remains ambiguous until later in the novel.
Gogol/Tuesday
Gogol is initially depicted with wild brown hair and a Polish accent but is later revealed to have an entirely different appearance. He is the first policeman to be exposed among the council members.
The Marquis de St. Eustache/Wednesday/Inspector Ratcliffe
The Marquis de St. Eustache is a distinguished man with a square-cut beard who works undercover as Inspector Ratcliffe. His dual identity is significant to the unfolding intrigue within the anarchist council.
Professor de Worms/Friday/Wilks
Professor de Worms, while appearing old and frail, is actually a young actor and detective named Wilks utilizing his disguise to penetrate the anarchists’ circle. His disguise contributes to the mystery surrounding the council.
Dr. Bull/Saturday
Dr. Bull is a short, clean-shaven man shrouded in secrecy due to his dark spectacles, leaving his eyes hidden. Initially perceived as threatening, he plays a key role in the unfolding assassination plot.
Rosamond Gregory
Rosamond Gregory, with gold-red hair, is Lucian Gregory’s calm and motherly sister, offering a stark contrast to her brother’s intense nature. She is the sole female character, embodying maternal and tranquil characteristics.
138
Novel • Fiction
London • Early 20th Century
1908
Adult
16+ years
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