Rebecca Book Summary

The bestselling classic and unforgettable gothic thriller

by Daphne Du Maurier102

TL;DR

Rebecca is a haunting gothic thriller about a young bride who struggles to find her identity while living in the shadow of her husband's first wife, Rebecca.

What is Rebecca about

Rebecca, written by Daphne Du Maurier, is a timeless gothic thriller that delves into psychological depth and atmospheric horror. The story revolves around a shy, young woman who marries Maxim de Winter, a widower she meets on a trip to the South of France. Upon arriving at Manderley, Maxim’s grand estate, the heroine finds herself overshadowed by the pervasive memory of Rebecca, Maxim's first wife. As she grapples with her new life, she faces suspicion, dread, and the haunting presence of her predecessor. First published in 1938, Rebecca has captured readers' imaginations with its eerie setting, complex characters, and suspenseful narrative.

Rebecca 5 Key Takeaways

The Proposal

The young heroine, on a holiday in the South of France, falls in love with and quickly marries the enigmatic widower, Maxim de Winter.

Arrival at Manderley

Upon arriving at Manderley, the grand de Winter estate, the new Mrs. de Winter is overwhelmed by the lingering presence of Rebecca, Maxim’s first wife.

The Shadow of Rebecca

The new Mrs. de Winter struggles to find her place as she constantly feels compared to the seemingly perfect Rebecca, whose memory is kept alive by the housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers.

Uncovering the Truth

Mrs. de Winter discovers that Rebecca was not as perfect as she seemed and that her death was shrouded in mystery and deception.

The Shocking Twist

In a stunning twist, it is revealed that Rebecca was terminally ill and manipulated those around her, leading to a dramatic and tragic conclusion.

Top Rebecca Quotes

  • "Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again."
  • "Rebecca, always Rebecca. Wherever I walked in Manderley, wherever I sat, even in my thoughts and in my dreams, I met Rebecca."

Who should read Rebecca?

Rebecca is ideal for readers who enjoy gothic fiction, psychological thrillers, and atmospheric novels with complex characters. Fans of timeless classics like Jane Eyre will find this book particularly captivating.

About the Author

Daphne Du Maurier was an English author and playwright, born in 1907. Renowned for her ability to weave suspenseful and atmospheric tales, she secured her place in literary history with works like Rebecca, Jamaica Inn, and My Cousin Rachel. Du Maurier's stories often explore themes of identity and the supernatural, earning her critical acclaim and a lasting legacy in the realm of gothic fiction.

Rebecca Best Reviews

  • Stephen King praised Rebecca as 'excellent entertainment,' noting that Du Maurier created a scale against which modern women can measure their feelings.
  • The Guardian called Rebecca 'a masterpiece,' highlighting its enduring appeal and the haunting, suspenseful narrative.

Rebecca FAQs

Why is the book Rebecca so famous?

Rebecca is famous for its rich evocation of the secretive mansion Manderley and its first mistress, Rebecca. The novel beguiles and deceives, compelling readers to delve beneath its surface glamour to uncover deeper truths.

What is the twist in Rebecca book?

The shocking twist reveals that Rebecca was terminally ill when Maxim killed her, contradicting her claim of being pregnant with another man's child.

Is Rebecca a horror novel?

Rebecca is often classified as a gothic thriller with elements of psychological horror, creating an atmospheric and suspenseful narrative.