The Miraculous Pitcher

by Nathaniel Hawthorne

Overview

"The Miraculous Pitcher" is a short story written by Nathaniel Hawthorne, an American author known for his contributions to dark romanticism. This particular story is part of his collection titled "A Wonder-Book for Girls and Boys," published in 1851.

Key features of "The Miraculous Pitcher" include:

Setting: The story is set in ancient Greece and draws inspiration from classical mythology.

Narrative Style: Hawthorne presents the story in a fairy-tale-like style, adapting classical myths for a young audience. The narrative is framed within a larger story in which a character named Eustace Bright tells tales to a group of children.

Plot: The central plot revolves around a young man named Epimetheus, who receives a miraculous pitcher from the goddess Venus. This pitcher has the power to provide an endless supply of water. However, Epimetheus faces challenges and moral dilemmas that he must navigate in his use of the miraculous gift.

Moral Lessons: Like many of Hawthorne's works, "The Miraculous Pitcher" imparts moral lessons. The story explores themes of generosity, gratitude, and the consequences of one's actions. It encourages readers, especially young ones, to consider the ethical implications of their choices. Mythological

Elements: The story incorporates elements of Greek mythology, introducing characters like Pandora and Epimetheus. However, Hawthorne adapts these characters and tales to convey his own moral and thematic messages.

Allegorical Interpretation: As is common in Hawthorne's writing, "The Miraculous Pitcher" can be interpreted allegorically. The miraculous pitcher may symbolize the gifts and responsibilities that come with divine blessings, and Epimetheus's journey reflects the challenges of using such gifts wisely.

Humorous Touch: Despite dealing with moral and ethical themes, Hawthorne infuses the narrative with humor and charm, making it accessible and engaging for a younger audience.

Educational Purpose: "A Wonder-Book for Girls and Boys" was explicitly written as a collection of stories for children. The tales are presented with the intention of entertaining young readers while imparting valuable life lessons.

"The Miraculous Pitcher" is a classic example of Hawthorne's ability to blend mythology, moral lessons, and storytelling in a way that engages readers of all ages. Through its whimsical narrative, the story encourages reflection on the values of kindness, gratitude, and responsible use of one's gifts.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781835912423
Publisher:	Sascha Association
Publication date:	12/21/2023
Pages:	22
Product dimensions:	8.50(w) x 11.00(h) x 0.05(d)

About the Author

Nathaniel Hawthorne (born Nathaniel Hathorne; July 4, 1804 - May 19, 1864) was an American novelist and short story writer.
Nathaniel Hawthorne was born in 1804 in the city of Salem, Massachusetts to Nathaniel Hathorne and the former Elizabeth Clarke Manning. His ancestors include John Hathorne, the only judge involved in the Salem witch trials who never repented of his actions. Nathaniel later added a "w" to make his name "Hawthorne" in order to hide this relation. He entered Bowdoin College in 1821, was elected to Phi Beta Kappa in 1824, and graduated in 1825. Hawthorne anonymously published his first work, a novel titled Fanshawe, in 1828. He published several short stories in various periodicals which he collected in 1837 as Twice-Told Tales. The next year, he became engaged to Sophia Peabody. He worked at a Custom Houseand joined Brook Farm, a transcendentalist community, before marrying Peabody in 1842. The couple moved to The Old Manse in Concord, Massachusetts, later moving to Salem, the Berkshires, then to The Wayside in Concord. The Scarlet Letter was published in 1850, followed by a succession of other novels. A political appointment took Hawthorne and family to Europe before their return to The Wayside in 1860. Hawthorne died on May 19, 1864, and was survived by his wife and their three children.
-wikipedia

Date of Birth:

July 4, 1804

Date of Death:

May 19, 1864

Place of Birth:

Salem, Massachusetts

Place of Death:

Plymouth, New Hampshire

Education:

Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine, 1824