In “The Tragic Tale of ‘The Man Who Died’,” D.H. Lawrence provides a summary of the novel by the same name, written by Finnish author, Juhani Aho. The story follows a man who, after being resurrected from the dead, begins to question his previous way of life and the societal norms that he once adhered to. Lawrence’s summary delves into the themes of the novel, including the search for meaning and the struggle between individuality and conformity.
The Tragic Tale of “The Man Who Died”: A Summary by D.H. Lawrence
D.H. Lawrence’s “The Man Who Died” is a tragic tale of a man named Pahom who, after living a life of materialistic pursuits, realizes the emptiness of his existence. In an attempt to find meaning, he joins a group of Christians and becomes enamored with their leader, a woman named Mary. Pahom’s devotion to Mary leads him to forsake his old life and follow her to Jerusalem, where he hopes to find spiritual enlightenment. However, upon arriving in Jerusalem, Pahom falls ill and dies. The story ends with Mary and the other Christians mourning his death, while Pahom’s spirit watches from above, realizing too late the true value of life. Lawrence’s tale is a poignant reminder of the dangers of materialism and the importance of living a life with purpose and meaning.
The Plot
The plot of “The Man Who Died” revolves around the protagonist, Richard Lovat Somers, who is a successful businessman. However, he is diagnosed with a terminal illness and is given only a few months to live. This news shakes him to the core, and he decides to leave his business and go on a journey to find the meaning of life. During his travels, he meets a woman named Lydia, who becomes his companion. Together, they explore the countryside and engage in philosophical discussions about life and death. However, their happiness is short-lived as Lydia dies suddenly, leaving Richard devastated. He continues his journey alone and eventually comes across a group of people who are suffering from a deadly disease. Richard decides to stay and help them, and in doing so, he contracts the disease and dies. The tragic tale of “The Man Who Died” is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of living it to the fullest.
The Characters
The characters in “The Man Who Died” are complex and multi-dimensional. The protagonist, Richard Lovat Somers, is a wealthy businessman who becomes disillusioned with his life and decides to leave everything behind to start anew. He is a man of contradictions, both selfish and selfless, and his journey is one of self-discovery and redemption. Other notable characters include Somers’ wife, Harriet, who is portrayed as a cold and calculating woman, and the mysterious figure of Jesus Christ, who appears to Somers in his dreams and ultimately plays a pivotal role in his transformation. Lawrence’s skillful characterization brings these individuals to life, making them relatable and compelling to readers.
The Setting
The setting of “The Man Who Died” is a small village in Italy, where the protagonist, a wealthy Englishman named Richard Lovat Somers, has come to live with his wife, Lydia. The village is described as being “old and grey,” with narrow streets and tall, dark buildings. The people of the village are suspicious of Richard and Lydia, and they are not welcomed with open arms. The setting is important to the story because it creates a sense of isolation and loneliness for Richard, who is already struggling with his own mortality. The village becomes a symbol of death and decay, and Richard’s attempts to escape it are futile. The setting also highlights the cultural differences between Richard and the villagers, which ultimately leads to his downfall.
The Themes
The themes present in “The Man Who Died” by D.H. Lawrence are complex and thought-provoking. One of the most prominent themes is the idea of death and rebirth. The protagonist, Richard, undergoes a transformation after his supposed death, shedding his old identity and embracing a new way of life. This theme is also reflected in the natural world, as the changing seasons and cycles of life and death are described in detail throughout the story.
Another important theme is the corrupting influence of power and wealth. Richard’s former life as a successful businessman is portrayed as shallow and empty, and his pursuit of money and status ultimately leads to his downfall. The contrast between his old life and his new existence as a simple laborer highlights the value of humility and the dangers of greed.
Finally, the story explores the idea of redemption and forgiveness. Richard’s past mistakes and misdeeds haunt him throughout the narrative, but he is ultimately able to find peace and forgiveness through his new way of life. This theme is particularly poignant in light of Lawrence’s own struggles with illness and mortality, and adds a layer of depth and complexity to the story.
The Symbolism
The symbolism in “The Man Who Died” is rich and complex, adding depth and meaning to the tragic tale. One of the most prominent symbols is the character of Jesus Christ, who appears in the story as a figure of both hope and despair. Lawrence uses Christ to explore themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the human condition, as well as to comment on the role of religion in society. Another important symbol is the river, which represents the flow of life and the inevitability of change. Lawrence uses the river to contrast the stagnant, oppressive world of the town with the freedom and possibility of the natural world. Other symbols include the cross, which represents the burden of suffering, and the garden, which symbolizes the possibility of renewal and growth. Overall, the symbolism in “The Man Who Died” adds depth and complexity to the story, inviting readers to explore its themes and meanings on multiple levels.
The Literary Devices
One of the most notable literary devices used in “The Man Who Died” is symbolism. Throughout the story, Lawrence uses various symbols to represent deeper meanings and themes. For example, the protagonist’s name, Richard Lovat Somers, is symbolic of his privileged and aristocratic background. Additionally, the recurring image of the moon represents the cyclical nature of life and death. Lawrence also employs foreshadowing to build tension and create a sense of impending doom. The opening line, “Richard Lovat Somers died suddenly,” sets the tone for the tragic events that unfold. Finally, Lawrence’s use of irony adds a layer of complexity to the story. The fact that Somers, who has spent his life avoiding death, ultimately chooses to embrace it is a poignant and ironic twist.
The Historical Context
The historical context of D.H. Lawrence’s “The Man Who Died” is crucial to understanding the themes and motifs present in the story. The early 20th century was a time of great social and political upheaval, with the First World War looming on the horizon and the rise of socialist and communist movements across Europe. Lawrence himself was deeply influenced by these events, and his writing often reflects his concerns about the state of the world and the human condition. In “The Man Who Died,” Lawrence explores themes of death, rebirth, and the search for meaning in a world that seems to have lost its way. Through the character of the protagonist, he examines the nature of identity, the role of religion in society, and the struggle for individual freedom in the face of oppressive social norms. Ultimately, “The Man Who Died” is a powerful meditation on the human experience, and a testament to Lawrence’s enduring legacy as one of the most important writers of the 20th century.
The Reception
The reception of “The Man Who Died” was mixed, with some critics praising Lawrence’s exploration of death and resurrection, while others criticized the novel’s religious themes and portrayal of Jesus. Despite the controversy, the novel remains a powerful and thought-provoking work that continues to captivate readers today. Lawrence’s vivid descriptions and complex characters make “The Man Who Died” a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the human condition and the mysteries of life and death.
The Criticisms
Despite the acclaim that “The Man Who Died” has received, it has not been without its criticisms. One of the main criticisms is that the story is too bleak and depressing. Some readers have found it difficult to connect with the protagonist, and have felt that his journey towards death is too hopeless and futile. Others have criticized Lawrence’s writing style, arguing that it is too dense and difficult to follow. Despite these criticisms, however, “The Man Who Died” remains a powerful and thought-provoking work of literature, and continues to be studied and analyzed by scholars and readers alike.
The Analysis
The analysis of “The Man Who Died” by D.H. Lawrence reveals a complex and tragic tale of a man’s journey towards death. The story follows the protagonist, Richard Lovat Somers, as he navigates the aftermath of a failed marriage and a life of unfulfilled desires. Lawrence’s use of vivid imagery and symbolism highlights the themes of death, rebirth, and the search for meaning in life. The story’s tragic ending serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of living a life devoid of purpose and passion. Overall, “The Man Who Died” is a powerful and thought-provoking work of literature that continues to resonate with readers today.
The Significance
The significance of “The Man Who Died” lies in its exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning in life. Lawrence’s protagonist, Richard Lovat Somers, undergoes a transformation after his supposed death, questioning the values and beliefs he once held dear. Through Somers’ journey, Lawrence delves into themes of religion, morality, and the nature of existence. The novel also serves as a commentary on the societal norms and expectations of the time, challenging readers to question their own beliefs and values. Overall, “The Man Who Died” is a thought-provoking and poignant work that continues to resonate with readers today.
The Influence
The influence of D.H. Lawrence’s “The Man Who Died” can be seen in various literary works that followed its publication. The novel’s exploration of themes such as death, rebirth, and spirituality has inspired many writers to delve deeper into these topics. Additionally, Lawrence’s use of vivid imagery and symbolism has influenced the writing styles of numerous authors. The tragic tale of “The Man Who Died” continues to captivate readers and inspire writers to this day.
The Comparison to Other Works
In comparison to other works by D.H. Lawrence, “The Man Who Died” stands out as a unique and tragic tale. While Lawrence is known for his exploration of human relationships and sexuality, this story delves into the themes of death and resurrection. The protagonist, Richard Lovat Somers, dies and is brought back to life, only to find that his experiences have left him disconnected from the world around him. This differs from Lawrence’s other works, which often focus on the complexities of human connection and emotion. Despite this difference, “The Man Who Died” still showcases Lawrence’s masterful storytelling and ability to evoke powerful emotions in his readers.
The Author’s Intentions
In “The Man Who Died,” D.H. Lawrence explores the themes of death, rebirth, and the search for meaning in life. The author’s intention is to challenge the reader’s perception of death and to question the traditional beliefs surrounding it. Through the protagonist’s journey, Lawrence presents a new perspective on death as a transformative experience rather than an end. The author also highlights the importance of living a meaningful life and finding one’s purpose before it’s too late. Overall, Lawrence’s intention is to provoke thought and encourage readers to reflect on their own beliefs about life and death.
The Writing Style
D.H. Lawrence’s writing style in “The Man Who Died” is characterized by his use of vivid imagery and descriptive language. He paints a picture of the protagonist’s journey through the countryside, describing the landscape in great detail and using sensory language to bring it to life. Lawrence also employs a stream-of-consciousness narrative style, allowing the reader to experience the protagonist’s thoughts and emotions in real-time. This creates a sense of intimacy with the character and draws the reader into the story. Additionally, Lawrence’s use of symbolism and metaphor adds depth and complexity to the narrative, allowing for multiple interpretations and layers of meaning. Overall, Lawrence’s writing style in “The Man Who Died” is both engaging and thought-provoking, making for a compelling read.
The Use of Irony
The use of irony is prevalent throughout D.H. Lawrence’s “The Man Who Died.” From the title itself, readers are already given a hint of the tragic ending that awaits the protagonist. However, the irony lies in the fact that the man who died, also known as Jesus Christ, is supposed to be immortal and the savior of humanity. Lawrence’s use of irony adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more thought-provoking and engaging for readers.
The Use of Imagery
In “The Man Who Died,” D.H. Lawrence makes use of vivid imagery to convey the protagonist’s emotional and physical journey. From the opening scene, where the man is described as “a little figure, dark and lonely, moving slowly along the edge of the sea,” to the final moments of his life, where he is “stretched out on the sand, with the waves lapping at his feet,” Lawrence’s descriptions create a powerful sense of atmosphere and mood. The use of imagery is particularly effective in conveying the man’s sense of isolation and despair, as well as his growing awareness of the beauty and fragility of life. Overall, Lawrence’s skillful use of imagery adds depth and richness to this tragic tale, making it a powerful and memorable work of literature.
The Use of Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is a literary technique that is used to give readers a hint of what is to come in a story. It is a way for authors to create suspense and build anticipation for the events that will unfold. In “The Man Who Died” by D.H. Lawrence, foreshadowing is used to great effect to create a sense of foreboding and tragedy. From the very beginning of the story, the reader is given clues that something terrible is going to happen to the protagonist, Richard Lovat Somers. The opening lines of the story describe him as a man who “had everything, and yet had nothing.” This sets the tone for the rest of the story, which is a tale of a man who is doomed to suffer despite his wealth and privilege. As the story progresses, the foreshadowing becomes more and more pronounced. We learn that Richard is suffering from a mysterious illness that no one can diagnose, and that he is haunted by a sense of impending doom. We also learn that he is deeply unhappy in his marriage, and that his wife is having an affair with another man. All of these elements combine to create a sense of inevitability about Richard’s fate. By the time the story reaches its tragic conclusion, the reader is not surprised by what happens, but is instead left with a sense of sadness and regret for a life that was cut short. In this way, foreshadowing is used to great effect in “The Man Who Died,” creating a powerful and unforgettable story of love, loss, and tragedy.