Lolita by Vladmir Nabokov (1955). Summary of the book.

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Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov (1955)

Lolita is Vladimir Nabokov’s most famous novel, published in 1955. The book tells the story of Humbert Humbert, a middle-aged professor of French literature, who is obsessed with a 12-year-old girl, Dolores Haze, nicknamed Lolita. The novel is known as a controversial and scandalous book, as it deals with the themes of child abuse, obsession, and love.

Plot Summary

Humbert Humbert, a middle-aged professor of French literature, moves to a small town in New England, where he meets Dolores Haze, the daughter of his landlady. Humbert is instantly attracted to the twelve-year-old Lolita. He begins to fantasize about her and eventually seduces her. The two begin an illicit affair, which leads to a cross-country journey.

Throughout the novel, Humbert is pursued by Quilty, a person from Lolita’s past. He is determined to find and reunite with Lolita and eventually finds her living with her new husband. Humbert is consumed by his obsession, but eventually, he realizes the full extent of his crime and the damage he has caused to Lolita.

Themes

The novel explores themes of obsession, love, and child abuse, as well as the power dynamics between adults and children. Nabokov uses language to illustrate the complexity of the characters and their relationships. He also employs symbolism to explore the psychological effects of child abuse.

Lolita is a complex and often controversial book, which has been the subject of much debate over the years. It is an exploration of the dark side of human nature, as well as a warning about the dangers of unchecked obsession.

Interesting Facts

  • The book was banned in France, the United Kingdom, and other countries due to its controversial content.
  • The novel was adapted into a critically-acclaimed film in 1962, starring James Mason as Humbert Humbert.
  • Nabokov wrote the novel in English, even though it was his second language.
  • The novel has sold over 50 million copies worldwide.
  • The book has been translated into more than 50 languages.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is Lolita about?

A: Lolita is a novel by Vladimir Nabokov, published in 1955. It tells the story of Humbert Humbert, a middle-aged professor of French literature, who is obsessed with a 12-year-old girl, Dolores Haze, nicknamed Lolita. The novel is known as a controversial and scandalous book, as it deals with the themes of child abuse, obsession, and love.

Q: Who is the author of Lolita?

A: The author of Lolita is Vladimir Nabokov, a Russian-born American writer. He is best known for the novel, which was published in 1955.

Q: How successful is Lolita?

A: Lolita is one of the most successful novels of all time. It has sold over 50 million copies worldwide, and has been translated into more than 50 languages.

Q: What are the themes explored in Lolita?

A: The novel explores themes of obsession, love, and child abuse, as well as the power dynamics between adults and children. Nabokov uses language to illustrate the complexity of the characters and their relationships.

Q: Is there a movie adaptation of Lolita?

A: Yes, there is a movie adaptation of Lolita. It was released in 1962 and stars James Mason as Humbert Humbert. The film was critically-acclaimed and is considered a classic.

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