“Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again…” is an iconic first line in literature from the classic novel ‘Rebecca’. Last year, Netflix adapted the novel into a movie starring Lily James and Armie Hammer. Before checking out the adaptation, it is best to start with the books. A warning for those who wish to read it: this book is best to read blind… no details except for the brief synopsis.
Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca was published in 1939. It is partially based on Dame du Maurier’s experience when she first married her husband.
Picture: Netflix
In 1932, a young Daphne du Maurier met her husband, Frederick Browning who was a decorated officer. They fell in love and quickly marries. However, secrets come to life soon after.
The book is about the nameless working-class heroine. A handsome widower, Maxim de Winter swept her off her feet in Monte Carlo and they fell in love. After a sudden proposal, she abandons her low-paying job and went home with him to Manderley, a famous estate he owned. Later, she soon realizes that she is living under the shadow of his late wife, Rebecca. Her presence continuously lingers and threatens to destroy her marriage. Furthermore, Rebecca’s death might not be just a simple accident. Fans of mystery might want to read this one.
Maybe the trailer suggested the supernatural interference in the heroine’s life. In contrast, the story is more of a psychological thriller about how a dead person’s memory could haunt someone just as bad a ghostly entity.
Picture: Netflix
Narrated by the heroine, readers follow her perspective on the ins and outs of Manderley, her thoughts on the people around her and the psychological tension with Mrs. Danvers, the housekeeper that was close to Rebecca contributes to her mental state. Apart from that, the growing distance between her and Maxim adds to her stress of trying to fill in Rebecca’s shoes.
Aside from Daphne du Maurier’s vivid writing style, there are many things to learn from the story – one of them is definitely not to get married too quickly too fast. Despite the time period, there are many things to relate to.
The sheltered heroine felt like fish out of the water as she entered the world of the high-class. Her journey towards reaching the standards of Rebecca is inspiring. Furthermore, her tenacity in fighting the memory of the woman to protect her marriage is something everyone should achieve.
