The Bridge of San Luis Rey
The Bridge of San Luis Rey
Book Brief
176
Novel • Fiction
Peru • 18th century
1927
Adult
16-18 years
Super Short Summary
In Thornton Wilder's novel, The Bridge of San Luis Rey, the collapse of an Inca rope bridge in 18th century Peru prompts Brother Juniper, a Franciscan friar, to investigate the lives of the five victims in an attempt to understand why they were chosen to die. As he delves into their histories, he seeks scientific explanations for the tragedy, questioning the interplay of fate, love, and human worth.
Contemplative
Mysterious
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
37,629 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Thornton Wilder's The Bridge of San Luis Rey has been widely praised for its philosophical depth and lyrical prose. Critics commend its exploration of fate and interconnectedness, though some find its pacing slow and its themes overly solemn. Overall, it is celebrated for its literary merit and thought-provoking narrative.
Who Should Read The Bridge of San Luis Rey?
A reader who enjoys The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder likely appreciates intricate storytelling, philosophical themes, and historical settings. Fans of One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez or The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway might find similar literary satisfaction.
37,629 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Bridge of San Luis Rey won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1928, making it part of Thornton Wilder's esteemed literary career and establishing his reputation as a celebrated American author.
The novel's philosophical exploration of fate and interconnectedness was inspired by Wilder's interest in the works of the philosopher and historian Oswald Spengler.
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The Bridge of San Luis Rey was adapted into multiple films, with the first adaptation being released in 1929 and later versions featuring notable actors such as Robert De Niro.
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176
Novel • Fiction
Peru • 18th century
1927
Adult
16-18 years
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