Chevalier, Tracy: *1962
Girl with a Pearl Earring, 1999 - Language/Style
- English Language Level: Intermediate
- Vocabulary – Most words are everyday English, but there are occasional historical/art-related terms (like “vermeer,” “tapestry,” “apprentice”) that are uncommon. Still, context usually makes them understandable.
Sentence Structure – Sentences are mostly simple or compound, not overly complex or convoluted, which makes it readable for an intermediate English learner.
Narrative Style – The book is written in first-person perspective, with clear descriptions of thoughts, feelings, and events. This avoids overly abstract or academic language.
Cultural/historical context – Some references to 17th-century Dutch life may require explanation, but they don’t make the language itself hard.
- Vocabulary – Most words are everyday English, but there are occasional historical/art-related terms (like “vermeer,” “tapestry,” “apprentice”) that are uncommon. Still, context usually makes them understandable.
- While there are occasional challenging words or historical concepts, the English itself is not advanced, making Intermediate the most accurate level.