The May-Pole of Merry Mount by Nathaniel Hawthorne (1836): A Review

Title: The May-Pole of Merry Mount

Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne

Publication Year: 1836

Rating: ⭐⭐

Genre: Allegory

Source: Ebook @everand_us

I usually avoid anything that resembles an allegory because they often come with preachy morals and religious advice that feel irritating. However, this one is an exception! Why? Because it turns the tired lessons on their head and doesn't trample on people's freedom and individuality.

Ironically, it also critiques free thinkers! So, where exactly does Hawthorne want us to land—on a comfortable fence? It feels like he’s trying to balance on that fence while juggling the skeletons of his Puritan ancestors, who are likely rolling their eyes from the afterlife. This piece seems like Hawthorne's version of a therapy session—he's airing out the family laundry and trying to redeem his lineage from its uptight ways.

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