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Gone with the Wind: Summary

Everything you need to know about Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind, in 1 paragraph.
An illustration of a reader enjoying Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell in a cosy interior
A reader enjoying Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell
Gone with the Wind is a classic novel by Margaret Mitchell set in the American South during and after the Civil War. The story follows Scarlett O'Hara, a strong-willed Southern belle whose life is changed dramatically when her beloved home is destroyed during the war. She must learn to survive and adapt to these new circumstances by relying on her wit and courage. She overcomes many obstacles along the way, including an ill-fated romance with Rhett Butler, a dashing Confederate soldier. Ultimately, Scarlett's strength of will is tested when she must rebuild her family's plantation and restore their fallen fortune.

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What is Gone with the Wind about?

Gone with the Wind is a classic novel that tells the story of Scarlett O'Hara and her struggles to survive in the aftermath of the Civil War. The novel focuses on themes like love, loyalty, courage, ambition, racism, and class divisions. In particular, it explores how people's choices and attitudes can be shaped by the times they live in. It also examines how society can be divided by race and class, and how these divisions can make it difficult for people to find true love and happiness. It is ultimately a story about resilience and hope in trying times.

Gone with the Wind: Book Club Questions

  1. What did you think of Scarlett O'Hara as a protagonist?
  2. How did the lives of the characters change throughout the novel?
  3. How did the author's use of symbolism enhance your understanding of the story?
  4. How does the novel portray the effects of slavery and Reconstruction on Southern society?
  5. Did you find Rhett Butler's character to be sympathetic?
  6. What is your opinion about how Scarlett and Rhett's relationship developed over the course of Gone with the Wind?
  7. Did you view any of the characters differently by the end of the novel than when they were introduced in Part I?
  8. What do you think was the author’s purpose in creating this story?
  9. Do you feel that any of Scarlett’s motivations were admirable or moral?
  10. Do you believe that this book still has relevance today, and why or why not?

What to say about Gone with the Wind

  • It's an incredible story of human resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
  • It paints a vivid picture of the culture, lifestyle, and politics of the post-Civil War South.
  • Scarlett O'Hara is one of literature's most iconic characters - her strength and determination are inspiring to readers.
  • The film adaptation is an excellent companion to the book, allowing viewers to further appreciate the character development and relationships in the novel.
  • Margaret Mitchell portrays the effects of war on individuals and communities in an honest, yet poetic way.
  • The novel has a timeless quality that allows readers from any era to connect with it in some way.
  • It's a powerful exploration of social inequality and race relations in America during this time period.
  • Despite its length, Gone with the Wind is a captivating read that never feels dull or drawn out.
  • The romance between Rhett Butler and Scarlett O'Hara is one of literature's most beloved love stories - full of passion, heartbreak, and complex emotions.
  • The novel provides insight into how love can often be intertwined with power dynamics - both within romantic relationships and social structures at large.

Top 5 Quotes from Gone with the Wind

  1. "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn."
  2. "After all, tomorrow is another day!"
  3. "I can't think about that right now. If I do, I'll go crazy. I'll think about that tomorrow."
  4. "No matter what happens, I'll always be a lady."
  5. "You should be kissed and often and by someone who knows how."

Adaptations of Gone with the Wind

1. Gone with the Wind (1939) – Film 2. Scarlett (1994) – Mini-Series 3. The Making of a Legend: Gone with the Wind (2008) – Documentary Film 4. GWTW Radio Show (1996–1997) – Radio Show 5. Rhett and Scarlett (2003) – Opera 6. The Wind Done Gone (2001) – Novel 7. The Muppet Show: Gone with the Wind (1978) – TV Special 8. Scarlett Fever: The Ultimate "Gone With The Wind" Trivia Challenge (2002) – Game Show 9. GWTW in 15 Minutes or Less (2006) – Podcast Series 10. Gone with the Wind on Broadway (2008) – Musical

Other books by Margaret Mitchell

  • Lost Laysen
  • The Garden of Adonis
  • Not by the Sun Alone: A Story of South India

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Gone with the Wind is the highest grossing film of all time when adjusted for inflation.