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clayjs's review
5.0
Another of the "Dorian Gray" books, Marius the Epicurean shows itself a very strong influence on Wilde. Wilde's rambunctious prose is anticipated in Pater's book, and there are very few passages that don't sheer, unquestionable style. The story of a young man experimenting with the various philosophies and religions of Ancient Rome on his search for happiness, Marius the Epicurean is alternately sad and fascinating, and Pater guides the reader through Marius's journey of discovery while exploring various forms of literary expression. One of the highlights is Pater's translation of Apuleius's retelling of the Cupid and Psyche story, which brings the present book in line with one of its chief inspirations, [b:The Golden Ass|80081|The Golden Ass|Apuleius|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327654203s/80081.jpg|1741202]. Pater was tragically under-read in the 20th century, and will probably continue to be into the 21st. Be a part of the solution, not of the problem, and read this awesome book!
cami19's review
adventurous
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
klaratoll's review
3.0
3,5 stars!
I always find it extremely difficult to rate Pater's work after a first read, because I know would like it better if I'd already read it before. It's always very dense and quite difficult to understand, but because of this there is also so much depth and nuance. So knowing myself and what I've thought of the other stuff I've read by Pater this would probably get an extra star if I read it again, but on a first read it's just a little too much to follow at times. Honestly, I always find Pater’s writing a bit of a chore to read but his works are among the ones I’ve found the most fun to analyse and write essays about and I think that shows the level of engagement with the language and context that’s needed to really appreciate the work.
I always find it extremely difficult to rate Pater's work after a first read, because I know would like it better if I'd already read it before. It's always very dense and quite difficult to understand, but because of this there is also so much depth and nuance. So knowing myself and what I've thought of the other stuff I've read by Pater this would probably get an extra star if I read it again, but on a first read it's just a little too much to follow at times. Honestly, I always find Pater’s writing a bit of a chore to read but his works are among the ones I’ve found the most fun to analyse and write essays about and I think that shows the level of engagement with the language and context that’s needed to really appreciate the work.
karolinasacademia's review
Did I only read four chapters of this? Yes.
Am I counting it as having read the full thing? Yes.
Why? Because even four chapters were four too many, so I deserve it.
Am I counting it as having read the full thing? Yes.
Why? Because even four chapters were four too many, so I deserve it.
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