Mystery & Thriller· Italy

The Name of the Rose

Aggregate Editorial Score60/100

★Edgar Award

Published 1983English

About This Book

The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco is a landmark work of mystery & thriller, first published in 1983. A medieval Franciscan monk and his novice investigate a series of murders at an Italian abbey, following a labyrinthine trail of clues through a vast, restricted library. Eco's debut novel is a masterpiece of intellectual mystery that works simultaneously as a thriller, a history of medieval thought, and a meditation on language and power. Themes of medieval history, books, religion run through the work. The book has received recognition from Edgar Award 1983 and Goodreads Choice Award 1980.

Book Details

Author	Umberto Eco
Published	1983
Country of Origin	🇮🇹 Italy
Language	English
Category	🔍 Mystery & Thriller
ISBN	9780156001311
Editorial Score	60/100

About the Category

🔍 Mystery & Thriller

Suspenseful fiction built around crime, detection, and hidden truths.

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Country of Origin

🇮🇹 Italy

This book is part of Italy's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

Umberto Eco published The Name of the Rose in 1983, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of mystery & thriller from Italy. The book's treatment of medieval history, books, religion, murder accounts for much of its enduring reputation. Among its recognitions: Edgar Award 1983; Goodreads Choice Award 1980; ALA Notable Books 1980. With an editorial score of 60/100 drawn from 3 independent sources, the book occupies a well-documented position in the critical literature. Its recognition spans international prizes, "best of" lists, and academic surveys. Readers coming to The Name of the Rose for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of medieval history, books, religion, murder is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at. Within Italy's literary landscape, Umberto Eco occupies a significant position. The Name of the Rose is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.

About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 3 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

Edgar Award

winner · genre

198342

Goodreads Choice Award

notable · global

198013

ALA Notable Books

notable · national

198010

✍️

About the Author

Umberto Eco

Italy

View Author →

Umberto Eco is a celebrated author from Italy known for influential works of mystery thriller.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Name of the Rose about?

A medieval Franciscan monk and his novice investigate a series of murders at an Italian abbey, following a labyrinthine trail of clues through a vast, restricted library. Eco's debut novel is a masterpiece of intellectual mystery that works simultaneously as a thriller, a history of medieval thought, and a meditation on language and power.

Who wrote The Name of the Rose?

The Name of the Rose was written by Umberto Eco, from Italy. First published in 1983.

What awards has The Name of the Rose won?

The Name of the Rose has received the following awards and honours: Edgar Award 1983; Goodreads Choice Award 1980; ALA Notable Books 1980.

Is The Name of the Rose worth reading?

The Name of the Rose is a well-regarded book with solid critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 60/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 3 editorial sources. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in medieval history, books, religion.

Where can I buy The Name of the Rose?

You can buy The Name of the Rose on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Name of the Rose?

The Name of the Rose is classified as Mystery & Thriller. Suspenseful fiction built around crime, detection, and hidden truths.

What country is The Name of the Rose from?

The Name of the Rose originates from Italy's literary tradition. Explore more books from Italy on our country page.

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The Name of the Rose

About This Book

Book Details

🔍 Mystery & Thriller

🇮🇹 Italy

Editorial Assessment

Awards & Recognition

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