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Ordering Books for The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder
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About the Book The Bridge of San Luis Rey
This thought-provoking, Pulitzer Prize-winning second novel by American writer Thornton Wilder was called "a masterpiece" by The New York Times when it was published in 1927. McCall's praised it as "the philosophical novel brought to perfection." New generations have applied its messages to tragic events, including the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, and the September 11 terrorist attacks. The Bridge of San Luis Rey remains a compelling literary classic exploring destiny, love, religion, and the meaning of life.
At the heart of The Bridge of San Luis Rey is a dramatic event—the collapse of a bridge in Peru, which leads to the deaths of five individuals. The novel opens with this tragic incident, immediately drawing readers into the mystery and the lives of the victims. Brother Juniper, a Franciscan monk, witnesses the disaster and sets out on a quest to understand why these particular individuals were chosen to die together. Through his investigation, the lives of the victims are revealed in rich detail.
The Marquesa de Montemayor and Pepita: One of the most poignant stories in the novel is that of the Marquesa de Montemayor and her companion, Pepita. The Marquesa is an eccentric and lonely woman, longing for the affection of her estranged daughter. Her letters to her daughter, filled with unrequited love and yearning, reveal the depths of her sorrow. Pepita, an orphan taken in by a convent, becomes her close confidante. Their relationship is a testament to the ways in which human connections can provide solace in a world filled with suffering.
Esteban and Manuel, the Twin Brothers: Esteban and Manuel are twin brothers with an unbreakable bond. Their story explores the themes of brotherhood, identity, and the pain of separation. When Manuel falls in love with an actress named Camila, their relationship faces a severe test. The twins' struggle to balance their deep connection with their individual desires adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Their tragic fate on the bridge underscores the novel's exploration of the unpredictable nature of life.
Uncle Pio and Camila Perichole: Uncle Pio, a mentor and confidante to the actress Camila Perichole, presents another compelling storyline. Pio's devotion to Camila is both paternal and obsessive. His efforts to shape her career and character reflect the theme of manipulation and control within relationships. Camila's transformation from a celebrated actress to a reclusive figure highlights the fleeting nature of fame and the vulnerability of the human spirit.
The Perichole's Son Jaime: Jaime, the son of Camila Perichole, adds yet another dimension to the novel. His youth and innocence stand in stark contrast to the complexities of the adult world around him. Jaime's presence serves as a reminder of the potential for redemption and the purity of a child's perspective. His tragic end on the bridge is a poignant commentary on the loss of innocence in a world marked by tragedy.
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