A Dream of Waking
A Dream of Waking is a novel by George MacDonald that explores themes of dreams and reality. The story follows the protagonist, who finds himself in a strange world where he must navigate through various challenges to find his way back home. Along the way, he encounters a variety of characters who help him on his journey. The novel is known for its vivid imagery and philosophical musings on the nature of reality and existence.
By George MacDonald · First published 1865 · Genre: Poetry, Fantasy, Philosophical · 545 words
First lines
A child was born in sin and shame, Wronged by his very birth, Without a home, without a name, One over in the earth.
No wifely triumph he inspired, Allayed no husband's fear; Intruder bare, whom none desired, He had a welcome drear.
What this Textopian page supports
A Dream of Waking is listed on Textopian as a novel by George MacDonald, dated 1865 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1865 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Fantasy, Philosophical, Religious, Victorian Literature
- Length: 545 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Dream of Waking by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Dream of Waking?
- How does this novel by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Wakeful Sleeper by George Macdonald
- The Dream by George William Russell
- A New Being by George William Russell
- Alter Ego by George William Russell
- In The Night by George Macdonald
- Somnium Mystici by George Macdonald
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Fantasy — The themes of dreams and waking suggest elements of fantasy and otherworldly exploration.
- Philosophical — The narrative explores deep existential themes such as identity, belonging, and the nature of reality.
- Religious — The text contains spiritual and moral undertones, reflecting on sin, redemption, and divine intervention.
Tags
fantasy · dreams · awakening · imagination · spirituality · allegory · self-discovery · mysticism · philosophy · narrative · symbolism · inner journey