The Masks We Hide Behind discussion

One of my personal favorites is....

Edmund Dantes
The Count of Monte Cristo

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/71...

And, why is my fave? Simply because there's nothing more classic than the wrongfully imprisoned who escapes and sets out to exact his revenge on those who wronged him. Doesn't hurt that while in captivity he became well educated in many things, escapes and happens upon treasure that allow him to re-emerge as a wealthy count. Chock full of plot twists and turns!

BTW - It's FREE, so there is NO reason not to read it!

Phantom of the Opera, but I'm not sure if I like the literary figure from the book. I connect more with the literary figure of the Phantom in the Broadway depiction because he's more sympathetic.

As far as literary figures in book format are concerned, probably Lestat, Anne Rice's main vampire. He does hide his identity at times from mortals. He even changes bodies with one. Although he is not masked, he represents a tragic figure, who is maligned by his identity and seeks various ways to redeem himself.

I agree on all points, Kathleen. I, too, am a huge fan of the Broadway interpretation of Phantom. I also love the Anne Rice series (and Cruise/Pitt aren't bad for the screen adaptation either!)

Great choice Kathleen! I too have seen Phantom of the Opera on Broadway and it is definitely a great masked character!