Mrs. Dalloway
Wishlist
Clarissa Dalloway, elegant and vivacious, is preparing for party and remembering those she once loved. In another part of London, Septimus Warren Smith is shell-shocked and on the…
Book Summary
Virginia Woolf's Mrs. Dalloway is a landmark modernist novel that unfolds over a single June day in 1923 London. It follows Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for a party, while shell-shocked war veteran Septimus Smith spirals toward madness. Their parallel lives converge in a profound exploration of time, memory, and social connection.
This book is not available
Store  |
Condition |
Deals & Coupons | Price |
Est. Shipping |
Total |
Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry we could not find any result for “9780156628709” | ||||||
About Mrs. Dalloway
Mrs. Dalloway is Virginia Woolf's celebrated 1925 novel set in post-World War I London. The narrative follows Clarissa Dalloway, a wealthy politician's wife, as she prepares to host a party that evening. Through her thoughts and memories, we learn of her youth, her past love for Peter Walsh, and her enduring friendship with Sally Seton. In parallel, Septimus Warren Smith, a veteran suffering from shell shock, wanders the city with his wife, haunted by hallucinations and the trauma of war. Woolf uses a stream-of-consciousness style to weave together the inner lives of these characters and many others, exploring themes of time, memory, mental illness, and the search for meaning. The novel culminates at Clarissa's party, where news of Septimus's suicide profoundly affects her, leading to a moment of existential reflection and connection.
Who should read Mrs. Dalloway?
This book is essential for readers interested in modernist literature, feminist writing, and psychological fiction. It appeals to those who appreciate lyrical prose and deep character exploration. Students of English literature will find it invaluable for studying narrative techniques and themes of post-war disillusionment. Anyone seeking a profound, beautifully crafted novel about the human condition will be rewarded.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Groundbreaking stream-of-consciousness narrative that immerses readers in characters' minds
- ✓ Rich, poetic prose that rewards careful reading and re-reading
- ✓ Deep exploration of universal themes: time, memory, mental health, and social connection
- ✓ Vivid portrayal of post-WWI London and its social milieu
- ✓ Complex, memorable characters whose inner lives are fully realized
Cons
- ✗ The nonlinear, fragmented style can be challenging for readers accustomed to traditional plots
- ✗ Lack of chapter breaks and shifting perspectives may confuse some readers
- ✗ Heavy focus on interiority means less external action
- ✗ Themes of mental illness and suicide are intense and may be triggering
- ✗ Some readers may find the pacing slow and the plot minimal
Frequently asked questions
What is the narrative style of Mrs. Dalloway?
The novel uses stream of consciousness, shifting between characters' inner thoughts and perceptions, often without clear transitions, to create a rich tapestry of subjective experience.
Is Mrs. Dalloway difficult to read?
It can be challenging due to its nonlinear structure and dense prose, but many readers find it rewarding once they adjust to Woolf's style. Reading guides or annotations can help.
What are the main themes of the novel?
Key themes include time and memory, mental illness (particularly shell shock), the constraints of social roles, the search for meaning, and the contrast between inner life and external appearances.
How are Clarissa and Septimus connected?
They never meet, but their lives are paralleled throughout the day. Both struggle with existential questions and societal pressures, and Septimus's suicide deeply affects Clarissa at her party, creating a moment of profound connection.
Is Mrs. Dalloway based on real people?
Woolf drew inspiration from her own life and acquaintances, but the characters are fictional. Clarissa shares some traits with Woolf's friend Kitty Maxse, and Septimus reflects the trauma of war veterans Woolf knew.
At Windsorbooks, we compare prices from trusted sellers so you can buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the best total price — shipping included.
As an Amazon Associate, Windsorbooks.com may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.