46 pages • 1 hour read
The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket
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Book Brief
The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1838288
Novel • Fiction
Various Locations • 19th Century
1838
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket, 16-year-old Arthur Gordon Pym stows away on a whaling ship, the Grampus, with the help of his friend Augustus. A mutiny ensues, and after regaining control of the ship, Pym and a few others are stranded at sea. They are eventually rescued and continue their journey to the South Pole, encountering perilous and mysterious events. The novel includes depictions of racism and alcohol misuse.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
13,618 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Edgar Allan Poe's The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket reveals a mastery in atmospheric storytelling with vivid, eerie descriptions and suspenseful sequences. However, some readers find the plot disjointed and the ending unsatisfactory. Overall, it's a compelling, albeit fragmented, work that showcases Poe's talent but may not appeal to everyone.
Who Should Read The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket?
Readers who enjoy dark, adventurous, and suspenseful sea tales like Herman Melville's Moby-Dick and Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness will find Edgar Allan Poe's The Narrative of Arthur Gordon Pym of Nantucket intriguing. The novel appeals to those who appreciate psychological depth, mysteries, and the macabre intertwined with exploration.
13,618 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Too-wit
Too-wit
Chief of the Tsalal tribe, he initially appears friendly to the crew of the Jane Guy. He is a pivotal figure in the novel's exploration of cultural encounters.
Augustus Barnard
Augustus Barnard
Pym's best friend who shares his enthusiasm for the sea, Augustus is instrumental in the early part of the narrative. His storytelling and companionship spark Pym's desire for adventure.
Dirk Peters
Dirk Peters
A physically strong crew member of the Grampus, he becomes Pym's ally after the ship's mutiny. He is characterized by his complex blend of strength and unexpected kindness.
Richard Parker
Richard Parker
A crew member on the Grampus, involved in the mutiny but later joins Pym's group. His role becomes significant in the dramatic survival challenges faced by the crew.
288
Novel • Fiction
Various Locations • 19th Century
1838
Adult
18+ years
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