Lilith
Lilith
Book Brief
Beta226
Novel • Fiction
Fantasy Realm
2005
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Lilith by George MacDonald, a man named Mr. Vane stumbles upon a mysterious library mirror that leads him into a fantastical world. Through his journey, Mr. Vane encounters various symbolic and mythical figures, confronting themes of life, death, and redemption while exploring his own identity and mortality.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Contemplative
Dark
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
7,748 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Lilith by George MacDonald is praised for its rich allegorical depth and imaginative narrative, capturing readers with its dreamlike journey and philosophical explorations. However, some critics find its dense prose and complex symbolism challenging. Its influence on fantasy literature is notable, appealing to those who appreciate intricate storytelling and profound themes.
Who Should Read Lilith?
A reader drawn to Lilith by George MacDonald likely enjoys fantastical allegories exploring themes of life, death, and redemption. Fans of C.S. Lewis’s The Great Divorce or Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland would find its dreamlike narrative and philosophical depth appealing.
7,748 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
George MacDonald's Lilith is often considered one of the earliest examples of modern fantasy literature, influencing later authors like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien.
The book explores themes of redemption and transformation, reflecting MacDonald’s interest in mysticism and spirituality, which he often wove into his fantastical narratives.
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Although Lilith was not widely recognized during MacDonald's lifetime, it has since gained appreciation for its rich allegorical depth and imaginative world-building.
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226
Novel • Fiction
Fantasy Realm
2005
Adult
18+ years
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