Vathek (Cyclopedia of Literary Characters)
At a glance:
- Author: William Beckford
- First Published: 1786
- Type of Work: Novel
- Type of Plot: Gothic
- Time of Work: The past
- Setting: Arabia
- Genres: Long fiction, Oriental tale
- Subjects: Magic or magicians, Love or romance, Murder or homicide, Good and evil, Rulers, Corruption, Cruelty, Devils or demons, Middle East, Quest, Princes or princesses, Fables, Ninth century
- Locales: Arabia
Characters Discussed
Vathek (VAH-tehk), an Arabian sultan, a man addicted to sensory pleasures who indulges in black magic. The Giaour gives him the key to the dark kingdom in response to human sacrifices. He makes Nouronihar his companion in the pleasures of this world and the world of magic. Vathek finds the secret lair of Eblis, Lord of Darkness, only to have his heart consumed by eternal flames.
Nouronihar (noh-ROHN-ih-hahr), the daughter of Emir Fakreddin. She is stolen from her betrothed by Vathek and becomes the favorite of his harem. She shares Vathek’s...
[The entire page is 523 words long]
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