46 pages • 1 hour read
Charles W. ChesnuttThe Marrow of Tradition
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1901A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Marrow of Tradition by Charles W. Chesnutt is set in the fictional town of Wellington, North Carolina, and chronicles the intertwined lives of Major and Mrs. Olivia Carteret and Dr. William and Mrs. Janet Miller. Olivia and Janet are half-sisters, but Olivia refuses to acknowledge Janet due to her mixed heritage. As Major Carteret stirs racial tensions through his newspaper, a violent riot erupts, deeply affecting both families and highlighting the persistent racial injustices of the era. Includes depictions of racial violence, including murder.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Marrow of Tradition by Charles W. Chesnutt is celebrated for its powerful portrayal of racial tensions and the complexities of post-Reconstruction America. Critics praise its rich character development and historical accuracy, though some find its pacing uneven. Overall, it is lauded as a significant, thought-provoking work that remains relevant to contemporary discussions on race.
Who Should Read The Marrow of Tradition?
Readers who appreciate literary works that explore racial tensions and social justice, such as Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird or Toni Morrison's Beloved, will find Charles W. Chesnutt's The Marrow of Tradition compelling. This novel delves into post-Reconstruction America, making it a thought-provoking read for those interested in American history and racial dynamics.