In Nazareth by Selma Lagerlof (1904)
The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who returns to her hometown after being away for many years. She struggles with feelings of isolation and disconnection from her community, which has changed significantly since she left. Through her experiences, the story explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships.
By Selma Lagerlof · First published 1904 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Fantasy, Children's Literature · 1,621 words
First lines
Once, when Jesus was only five years old, he sat on the doorstep outside his father's workshop, in Nazareth, and made clay cuckoos from a lump of clay which the potter across the way had given him. He was happier than usual. All the children in the quarter had told Jesus that the potter was a disobliging man, who wouldn't let himself be coaxed, either by soft glances or honeyed words, and he had never dared ask aught of him. But, you see, he hardly knew how it had come about. He had only stood on his doorstep and, with yearning eyes, looked upon the neighbor working at his molds, and then that neighbor had come over from his stall and given him so much clay that it would have been enough to finish a whole wine jug.
What this Textopian page supports
In Nazareth is listed on Textopian as a short story by Selma Lagerlof, dated 1904 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Selma Lagerlof
- Date: 1904 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Fiction, Fantasy, Children's Literature, Literary Fiction, Allegory
- Length: 1,621 words
- Structure: 1 section, 27 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for In Nazareth by Selma Lagerlof
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering In Nazareth?
- How does this short story by Selma Lagerlof fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Wise Mens Well by Selma Lagerlof
- Robin Redbreast by Selma Lagerlof
- The Peace Of God by Selma Lagerlof
- The Little God And Dicky by Josephine Daskam Bacon
- The Inscription On The Grave by Selma Lagerlof
- The Harvest by Parker Fillmore
Genres
- Religious Fiction — The narrative centers around the childhood of Jesus, exploring themes of divinity, innocence, and moral lessons.
- Fantasy — The story incorporates elements of magic and wonder, such as Jesus painting birds with sunlight, which transcends reality.
- Children's Literature — The simple language and themes of play and imagination cater to a younger audience, focusing on childhood experiences.
- Literary Fiction — The writing style is reflective and rich in imagery, emphasizing character development and emotional depth.
Tags
Fiction · Novel · Swedish Literature · Realism · Social Commentary · Family Drama · Coming of Age · Small Town Life · Rural Setting · Poverty · Class Struggle · Morality Tale