My Name is Red by Orhan Pamuk receives praise for its richly layered narrative, intricate depiction of 16th-century Ottoman art, and philosophical depth. Critics highlight its complex structure and vivid characters. However, some find its pacing slow and the myriad perspectives challenging. Overall, it is seen as a unique and thought-provoking literary work.

Ideal for intellectually curious readers, history enthusiasts, and art lovers, My Name is Red weaves a rich tapestry of 16th-century Ottoman Empire intrigue. Fans of Umberto Eco's The Name of the Rose or Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children will relish its blend of mystery, philosophy, and meticulous historical detail.

My Name is Red by Orhan Pamuk, set in late-16th century Istanbul, unfolds through multiple viewpoints—including those of human characters, a corpse, and inanimate objects—to narrate the murder of a miniaturist, artistic and cultural struggles, and a romantic plot where Black returns to Istanbul, investigates the murder, and rekindles a complex relationship with his cousin, Shekure. This book includes themes of murder, sexual harassment, and torture.

Mysterious / Contemplative / Melancholic / Suspenseful / Bittersweet

Orhan Pamuk

Adult

Novel

Fiction

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Overview

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My Name is Red Summary

Background

My Name is Red Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-4

My Name is Red Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-10

My Name is Red Chapters 5-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-14

My Name is Red Chapters 11-14 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 15-19

My Name is Red Chapters 15-19 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 20-27

My Name is Red Chapters 20-27 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 28-36

My Name is Red Chapters 28-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-40

My Name is Red Chapters 37-40 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 41-47

My Name is Red Chapters 41-47 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 48-53

My Name is Red Chapters 48-53 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 54-59

My Name is Red Chapters 54-59 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

My Name is Red Character Analysis

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Themes

My Name is Red Themes

Symbols & Motifs

My Name is Red Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

My Name is Red Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

My Name is Red Essay Topics

My Name is Red

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