The Great Stone Face

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Apr 2021 · Good Press

About this ebook

Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'The Great Stone Face' delves into the themes of moral integrity, the pursuit of greatness, and the impact of environment on character. Written in Hawthorne's signature allegorical style, the novella takes place in the scenic backdrop of the White Mountains and follows the story of a young man who is inspired by the legendary Great Stone Face to lead a life of virtue and benevolence. The narrative is rich in symbolism, exploring the tension between ambition and humility. Hawthorne's eloquent prose and nuanced characterizations bring depth to the allegory, making it a timeless exploration of human nature and destiny. 'The Great Stone Face' is a classic example of American Romantic literature, blending philosophical contemplation with vivid descriptions of nature and expressions of the human spirit. Fans of allegorical fiction and moralistic tales will find this novella both engaging and thought-provoking, offering insights into the complexities of human aspirations and the power of moral influence.

About the author

Nathaniel Hawthorne was born on July 4, 1804 in Salem, Massachusetts. When he was four years old, his father died. Years later, with financial help from his maternal relatives who recognized his literary talent, Hawthorne was able to enroll in Bowdoin College. Among his classmates were the important literary and political figures Horatio Bridge, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and Franklin Pierce. These friends supplied Hawthorne with employment during the early years after graduation while Hawthorne was still establishing himself as a legitimate author. Hawthorne's first novel, Fanshawe, which he self-published in 1828, wasn't quite the success that he had hoped it would be. Not willing to give up, he began writing stories for Twice-Told Tales. These stories established Hawthorne as a leading writer. In 1842, Hawthorne moved to Concord, Massachusetts, where he wrote a number of tales, including "Rappaccini's Daughter" and "Young Goodman Brown," that were later published as Mosses from an Old Manse. The overall theme of Hawthorne's novels was a deep concern with ethical problems of sin, punishment, and atonement. No one novel demonstrated that more vividly than The Scarlet Letter. This tale about the adulterous Puritan Hester Prynne is regarded as Hawthorne's best work and is a classic of American literature. Other famous novels written by Hawthorne include The House of Seven Gables and The Blithedale Romance. In 1852, Hawthorne wrote a campaign biography of his college friend Franklin Pierce. After Pierce was elected as President of the United States, he rewarded Hawthorne with the Consulship at Liverpool, England. Hawthorne died in his sleep on May 19, 1864, while on a trip with Franklin Pierce.