Hell Screen
Hell Screen
Book Brief
Beta58
Short Story • Fiction
Heian Period Japan
2011
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In "Hell Screen" by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa, the story is set in medieval Japan and follows a master painter commissioned by a lord to create a folding screen depicting scenes of hell. Obsessed with portraying realism, the artist must confront moral dilemmas and personal suffering as he seeks to capture the essence of torment in his art.
Dark
Mysterious
Unnerving
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
2,652 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ryūnosuke Akutagawa's Hell Screen is praised for its masterful storytelling and psychological depth, exploring themes of obsession and artistry. The vivid imagery and intense atmosphere captivate readers. However, some find the bleakness overwhelming and the characters underdeveloped. Overall, it's a compelling, albeit dark, narrative that provokes thought.
Who Should Read Hell Screen?
Readers who enjoy Hell Screen by Ryūnosuke Akutagawa likely appreciate psychological horror and moral dilemmas. Comparable to readers of The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde and The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe, they seek dark, introspective narratives exploring human nature and artistic obsession.
2,652 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Hell Screen was first published in 1918 and is considered one of Ryūnosuke Akutagawa's most notable short stories, reflecting his interest in blending Japanese history with psychological and philosophical themes.
Akutagawa's narrative style in Hell Screen is heavily influenced by traditional Japanese storytelling, which often explores complex moral dilemmas and human nature.
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The story has inspired adaptations in various media, including films and stage plays, highlighting its enduring impact and popularity in Japanese culture.
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58
Short Story • Fiction
Heian Period Japan
2011
Adult
18+ years
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