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46 pages 1 hour read

Mark Twain

The Mysterious Stranger

Mark TwainFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1916

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Book Brief

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Mark Twain

The Mysterious Stranger

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1916
Book Details
Pages

198

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Austria • Late 1500s

Publication Year

1916

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Mysterious Stranger by Mark Twain, set in the Middle Ages, follows young Theodor Fischer and his friends who meet Satan, an angelic figure with magical powers. As Satan performs wondrous acts, the boys become captivated by him, but they soon realize his aid comes with severe consequences, challenging their views on morality and existence. Contains depictions of human suffering, insanity, and blasphemy.

Mysterious

Contemplative

Dark

Fantastical

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Mysterious Stranger by Mark Twain blends dark satire with philosophical musings, exploring human nature and morality. While praised for its thought-provoking themes and Twain's sharp wit, some readers find its pessimistic outlook and dense prose off-putting. Overall, it remains a compelling, if challenging, read for fans of existential literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Mysterious Stranger?

Fans of The Mysterious Stranger by Mark Twain are typically drawn to philosophical and satirical fiction. They appreciate probing existential themes and subtle social criticism akin to works like Voltaire's Candide and Kafka’s The Trial. They enjoy narratives that challenge moral conventions and explore the human condition with a blend of wit and thought-provoking inquiry.

Book Details
Pages

198

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Austria • Late 1500s

Publication Year

1916

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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