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Wieland

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1798

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Book Brief

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Charles Brockden Brown

Wieland

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1798
Book Details
Pages

204

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pennsylvania • 18th century

Publication Year

1798

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Wieland by Charles Brockden Brown is a Gothic horror novel written in an epistolary format, in which Clara Wieland recounts the eerie events leading up to the deaths of her brother Theodore, his wife Catherine, and their children after experiencing disembodied voices and mysterious apparitions on their estate. The book explores themes of mental illness, delusion, and supernatural phenomena.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

3.9

2,262 ratings

47%

Loved it

34%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Charles Brockden Brown’s Wieland is praised for its pioneering role in American Gothic literature, with a gripping and eerie narrative that delves into psychological horror. However, some critics note its convoluted plot and archaic language can be challenging for modern readers. Overall, it's a seminal work marked by vivid suspense and moral complexity.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Wieland?

Fans of gothic novels and psychological horror who appreciate classic literature with intricate plots will enjoy Charles Brockden Brown's Wieland. Readers who admire the suspenseful nature of works like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein or Edgar Allan Poe's tales will find this novel compelling for its exploration of madness and early American settings.

3.9

2,262 ratings

47%

Loved it

34%

Mixed feelings

20%

Not a fan

Character List

Clara Wieland

The story's narrator, who writes in a first-person epistolary format, trying to make sense of mysterious events and supernatural occurrences affecting her family and friends.

A mysterious and complex character introduced as a trickster figure, bringing mischief and chaos to the narrative through his enigmatic actions.

Clara's brother, depicted as a gentle and passionate man who seeks a spiritual connection, influencing the unfolding events with his strong beliefs.

A friend of the Wieland family, known for his intellectual interests and the tension arising from his interactions with Clara and his own romantic entanglements.

A figure marked by religious fervor and mental illness, whose tragic fate and mysterious death serve as a catalyst for the story's events.

A friend of the Wieland family who provides support and a setting for significant plot developments when needed.

A young girl depicted as beautiful, sweet, and virtuous, with a family history that enriches the narrative's exploration of personal downfall.

Louisa's father whose backstory offers insights into the consequences of unchecked emotion and the quest for vengeance.

Clara's maid, who becomes involved with Carwin and plays a part in the unfolding drama through her actions and background.

Clara and Theodore's uncle on their mother's side, fulfilling the role of guardian and offering medical and familial support.

Book Details
Pages

204

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Pennsylvania • 18th century

Publication Year

1798

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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