The Altar of the Dead
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"The Altar of the Dead" is a short story by Henry James, first published in his collection Terminations in 1895. A fable of literally life and death significance, the story explores how the protagonist tries to keep the remembrance of his dead friends, to save them from being forgotten entirely in the rush of everyday events. He meets a woman who shares his ideals, only to find that the past places what seems to be an impassable barrier between them. Although James was not religious in any conventional sense, the story shows a deep spirituality in its treatment of mortality and the transcendent power of unselfish love.
Quick Facts Author, Country ...
Author | Henry James |
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Country | United Kingdom, United States |
Language | English |
Genre | Short story |
Publisher | William Heinemann, London Harper & Brothers, New York City |
Publication date | Heinemann: May 15, 1895 Harper: June 18, 1895 |
Media type | Print Published as part of the short story collection Terminations |
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