MY NEW THOUGHTS ON REBECCA

On numerous occasions, I have hailed Rebecca as one of my favorite books and a Classic I would recommend to covert Classic-haters. Four years after my initial reading, I have a newfound appreciation for the writing and a better understanding of the protagonist, but my qualms with the development were amplified. It pains to me say this, especially since I've praised it for so long and my respect for it, but it can be a real bore! 

On another note, I've also done a little more research on Daphne du Maurier. I found this article from The Guardian, which will open in a new window, incredibly fascinating. Reading this article affected how I read and interpreted Mrs. Danver's spiel after the ball, giving me a whole new perspective on the characters and the author.

THIS WAS SUPPOSED TO BE CREEPY?

We Have Always Lived in the Castle
by Shirley Jackson
September 21, 1962

       Merricat Blackwood lives on the family estate with her sister Constance and her Uncle Julian. Not long ago there were seven Blackwoods—until a fatal dose of arsenic found its way into the sugar bowl one terrible night. Acquitted of the murders, Constance has returned home, where Merricat protects her from the curiosity and hostility of the villagers. Their days pass in happy isolation until cousin Charles appears. Only Merricat can see the danger, and she must act swiftly to keep Constance from his grasp.

DU MAURIER'S STUDY IN JEALOUSY | REBECCA REVIEW

Rebecca
by Daphne du Maurier
Victor Gollancz | 1938

       The novel begins in Monte Carlo, where our heroine is swept off her feet by the dashing widower Maxim de Winter and his sudden proposal of marriage. Orphaned and working as a lady's maid, she can barely believe her luck. It is only when they arrive at his massive country estate that she realizes how large a shadow his late wife will cast over their lives-presenting her with a lingering evil that threatens to destroy their marriage from beyond the grave.