A Modern Mephistopheles
1877 novel / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
A Modern Mephistopheles is a gothic thriller[1] published by the Roberts Brothers in 1877 and written by Louisa May Alcott. It is based on Goethe's Faust and contains stylistic elements Alcott used earlier in her writing career. The novel follows Felix Canaris and Gladys, two young people whose lives are manipulated by a wealthy semi-invalid Jasper Helwyze, who seeks to undermine their relationship for psychological experimentation. Under Helwyze's direction, Canaris and Gladys marry. Gladys and Canaris eventually overcome Helwyze's influence on them.
Author | Louisa May Alcott |
---|---|
Country | United States |
Language | English |
Publisher | Roberts Brothers. |
Publication date | 1877 |
A Modern Mephistopheles received both critical and positive reviews during its early publication. It was noted for its discussions on psychology as well as the symbolism of the characters. Newspaper and journal reviews claimed it was unpleasant to read while acknowledging that parts of it were interesting. A Modern Mephistopheles uses Greek myths and art to discuss character relations, and it also explicitly references The Scarlet Letter, Arthurian legends, and Faust. Analysis of the novel has included femininity and gendered relationships with art.