The Damnation of Theron Ware or Illumination

The narrative centers on a naive Methodist minister whose exposure to the progressive ideas of his rural community leads to his spiritual and psychological unraveling. As he grapples with concepts like liberalism and bohemianism, he ultimately faces rejection for his conventional beliefs. Celebrated for its deep psychological insights, the novel is regarded as one of the finest American works of the nineteenth century, offering a poignant exploration of human nature and societal expectations.