{"product_id":"catalina-by-w-somerset-maugham-rare-books","title":"Catalina by W. Somerset Maugham [rare books]","description":"\u003ch3 data-start=\"308\" data-end=\"327\" class=\"\"\u003eBook Summary\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCatalina is a historical novel by W. Somerset Maugham, first published in 1948. Set in 16th-century Spain during the Inquisition, it is Maugham’s final full-length novel and offers a satirical yet romantic portrayal of religious and social life in that era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"329\" data-end=\"790\" class=\"\"\u003eThe story follows Catalina, a 16-year-old girl who, after being miraculously cured of a crippling condition through a vision of the Virgin Mary, is pressured into joining a Carmelite convent. However, Catalina resists this fate, determined to marry her true love, Diego. She defies religious expectations by leaving the convent and joining a troupe of strolling players, ultimately becoming Spain’s most famous actress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"792\" data-end=\"1105\" class=\"\"\u003eThe novel explores themes of religious authority, personal freedom, and the tension between spiritual devotion and earthly desires. Through Catalina’s journey, Maugham critiques the dogmatic nature of the Church and the societal constraints placed on women during the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"1112\" data-end=\"1135\" class=\"\"\u003eAbout the Author\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1527\" class=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1137\" data-end=\"1165\"\u003eWilliam Somerset Maugham\u003c\/strong\u003e (1874–1965) was a British playwright, novelist, and short story writer. He was one of the most popular writers of his time, known for his keen observations of human nature and his ability to craft compelling narratives. Maugham's works often delve into themes of love, betrayal, and the complexities of human relationships.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Best Of Used Books","offers":[{"title":"Used","offer_id":46307695100161,"sku":"346X6H5OH-Used","price":150.0,"currency_code":"INR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0421\/4299\/0495\/files\/5858.jpg?v=1747642421","url":"https:\/\/bestofusedbooks.com\/products\/catalina-by-w-somerset-maugham-rare-books","provider":"Best Of Used Books","version":"1.0","type":"link"}