Monsieur du Miroir (From "Mosses from an Old Manse")

Name: Monsieur du Miroir (From "Mosses from an Old Manse")
Author: Nathaniel Hawthorne

The narrator examines a mysterious companion who mirrors his appearance, moods, and misfortunes so exactly that clothes, illnesses, and gestures recur between them; the other never speaks yet seems expressive, delights in bathing and odd public antics, and appears at the same private and public sites as the narrator. A collection of wry anecdotes raises uncertainty about whether the double is supernatural, a prank, or a psychological reflection, while probing themes of identity, sympathy, imitation, and the discomfiting intimacy created by an inescapable resemblance.

By Nathaniel Hawthorne

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American Literature Short Stories

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About the Author

Nathaniel Hawthorne

Nathaniel Hawthorne was an American novelist and short story writer, born in 1804 in Salem, Massachusetts. He is best known for his exploration of moral complexity and the human condition, often set against the backdrop of New England's Puritan heritage. His notable works include "The Scarlet Letter," which delves into themes of sin and redemption, and "The House of the Seven Gables," a tale of guilt and retribution. Hawthorne's writing is characterized by its rich symbolism and psychological depth, making significant contributions to American literature. His stories often reflect his fascination with the darker aspects of human nature and the consequences of isolation.