02570cam a22003253u 4500 9228 UtSlPG 20260610133230.0 m cr n 260607r2005||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PS Hawthorne, Nathaniel, 1804-1864 The Christmas Banquet (From "Mosses from an Old Manse") Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2005 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosses_from_an_Old_Manse Release date is 2005-11-01 David Widger and Al Haines "The Christmas Banquet (From 'Mosses from an Old Manse')" by Nathaniel Hawthorne is a poignant allegorical tale that falls within the genre of short fiction, written during the 19th century, specifically in the Romantic era. The story delves into the nature of human sadness and existential despair, exploring how individuals cope with their own misery and the specter of death, particularly through the lens of a Christmas gathering intended to highlight human suffering rather than joy. The narrative centers around an extraordinary Christmas dinner hosted by the will of a melancholic gentleman who allocates funds to provide a banquet for the most miserable individuals he can find. As various guests—each representing different forms of sorrow and despair—gather at the table, they share their tragic stories and reflect on the nature of human suffering. Among them sits Gervayse Hastings, a young man seemingly devoid of genuine emotion, which raises questions regarding his presence among such afflicted souls. The stark contrast between Hastings' outward success and the profound inner desolation of the other guests serves as a vehicle for exploring themes of authenticity, the search for meaning, and the chilling sense of disconnect that comes from living without true grief or joy. The evening ultimately unfolds in a darkly ironic manner, culminating in a chilling realization about the nature of existence and the burdens of unacknowledged suffering. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Short stories New England -- Social life and customs -- Fiction https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/9228 51039 51039