A Treatise on "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier
A Treatise on "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier Introduction "Rebecca," published in 1938, is a seminal work of Gothic fiction that explores themes of identity, memory, and the haunting power of the past. Written by Daphne du Maurier, the novel has captivated readers for decades with its atmospheric storytelling and complex characters. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of an unnamed protagonist, often referred to as "the second Mrs. de Winter," who grapples with her insecurities in the shadow of her husband's deceased first wife, Rebecca. Plot Overview The story begins with the young, unnamed narrator working as a paid companion to the wealthy, older woman, Mrs. Van Hopper. While in Monte Carlo, she meets the enigmatic widower Maxim de Winter, and after a whirlwind romance, they marry and return to his estate, Manderley. However, the ghost of Rebecca looms large over their marriage. The housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers, is obsessively devoted to Re...