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Burr
448 pages, 2000
In 1804, while serving as vice president, Aaron Burr fought a duel with his political nemesis, Alexander Hamilton, and killed him. In 1807, he was arrested, tried, and acquitted of treason.
In 1833, Burr is newly married, an aging statesman considered a monster by many. But he decides to tell his own story. He chooses to confide in a young New York City journalist named Charles Schermerhorn Schuyler. Together, they explore both Burr's past—and the continuing drama of their young nation.
Gore Vidal's Burr gives you a chance to explore the complexities of early American politics. The book is a fictionalized account of Aaron Burr's life, offering a unique perspective on the founding fathers and the birth of the United States.
In Burr, Vidal paints a vivid picture of Aaron Burr and other historical figures, showing their human side. You'll see that these figures, often idealized in history, had their own flaws and ambitions, just like everyone else.
Burr offers a fresh take on American history. Instead of the usual glorified accounts, Vidal presents a more realistic, and sometimes cynical, view of the events and people that shaped the nation.
The book shows how perspective can change the way we see history. Vidal uses Burr's viewpoint to challenge the traditional narratives about the founding of America, encouraging readers to question and research more about the past.
Burr is a great example of historical fiction done right. Vidal skillfully blends fact and fiction to create a compelling narrative that will keep you hooked till the end. If you're a fan of history or just love a good story, you should definitely check out this book.
Quotes 5
Burr is a splendidly vivid, richly detailed, and brilliantly narrated fictional portrait of the enigmatic Aaron Burr.
Harold Bloom - Literary criticBurr is a dazzlingly dark and compelling exploration of human nature, power, and the corruption of ideals.
Christopher Hitchens - Author, journalistBurr is a masterful blend of fact and fiction, a vivid reimagining of a pivotal era in American history.
Joyce Carol Oates - Novelist, teacherBurr is a fascinating, meticulously researched, and beautifully written historical novel that brings the past to life.
John Updike - Novelist, poetBurr is a powerful, thought-provoking novel that challenges our perceptions of history and truth.
Susan Sontag - Writer, filmmaker