Annunciata by Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen

Name: Annunciata
Author: Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen

The novel revolves around a young woman's struggle to maintain her independence and individuality within the constraints of societal expectations. It explores themes of identity, morality, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative delves into the protagonist's inner turmoil as she navigates her desires and responsibilities, ultimately leading to a confrontation with the harsh realities of life.

By Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen · First published 1904 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Drama · 6 chapters · 14,246 words

First lines

In the gallery of one of the famous Roman villas which commands a splendid view of the city, Mr. Henry Vincent, a young American, was lounging. Judging by his appearance he was a college graduate, or, to speak more definitely, a graduate of Harvard; for he had that jaunty walk and general trimness of attire which are the traditional attributes of the academical denizens of Cambridge. He swung his arms rather more than was needed to assist locomotion, and betrayed in an unobtrusive manner a consciousness of being well dressed. His face, which was not without fine possibilities, had an air of well-bred neutrality; you could see that he assumed a defensive attitude against aesthetic impressions, -- that even the Sistine Madonna or the Venus of Milo would not have surprised him into anything like enthusiasm or abject approval. It was evident, too, that he was a little bit ashamed of his Baedeker, which he consulted only in a semi-surreptitious way, and plunged into the pocket of his overcoat whenever he believed himself to be observed. Such a contingency, however, seemed remote; for the silence that reigned about him was as heavy and profound as if it had been unbroken since creation's day. The large marble halls had a grave and inhospitable air, and their severe magnificence compelled even from our apathetic traveller a shy and reluctant veneration. He tried to fix his attention upon a certain famous Guido which was attached by hinges to the wall, and which, as he had just learned from Baedeker, was a marvel of color and fine characterization; he stood for a few moments staring with a blank and helpless air, as if, for the first time in his life, he was beginning to question the finality of his own judgment. Then his eyes wandered off to the cornice of the wall, whose florid rococo upholstery won his sincere approval.

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Annunciata is listed on Textopian as a novel by Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen, dated 1904 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen
Date: 1904 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, Romance, Drama, Literary Fiction
Length: 14,246 words
Structure: 6 chapters, 118 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Discussion starters

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How does this novel by Hjalmar Hjorth Boysen fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The narrative is set in a historical context, exploring themes and events from a past era.
Romance — The plot centers around romantic relationships and emotional connections between characters.
Drama — The story involves intense character development and emotional themes, focusing on personal and interpersonal conflicts.
Literary Fiction — The writing style emphasizes complex characters and thematic depth, with a focus on narrative quality.