This novel was an unexpected delight. If I had to classify this
novel I would say that it is a British-American novel. What I mean by this is
that it has the feeling and mood of American novels, two of which came to mind
while reading this: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott. Fitzgerald, and The Mysteries
of Pittsbugh by Michael Chabon, while remaining true to its British setting and
culture with the background of changing times.
Through our narrator, Charles Ryder, it is easy to see the
relationship between The Great Gatsby narrated by the male character Nick
Carraway, and The Mysteries of Pittsburgh narrated by the male character Art
Bechstein. Ryder, Carraway and Bechstein are all charmed by other Male
characters (Sebstian in Brideshead, Gatsby in Gatsby, and Arthur in Pittsbugh).
Each of these novels is narrated through the eyes of male characters whose own
life revolves around another protagonist. In other words, our narrator is the
side character in his own life. Because of this, each novel has an air of sadness
and tragedy.
Brideshead Revisisted was a fast-paced novel with the era of
the 20’s written into the language and words, while the characters mirror a
world that is changing. We have the base of tradition through the grand estate
of Brideshead Castle, and the religion which holds captive each member of
Sebastion’s family, juxtaposed with the new world, the war, and the beginning
of women’s liberation.
If you enjoy reading about this era—pick up this novel, you
won’t regret it!
Up Next: Moby Dick...for real this time!
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