Henry James's poignant novella, 'The Altar of the Dead,' delves into the profound psychological landscape of grief and remembrance. The story centers on George Stransom, a man consumed by the memory of his deceased loved ones. He dedicates a private altar to them, lighting candles for each cherished soul lost. His solitary ritual is disrupted when he encounters Mrs. Server, a woman sharing a similar, though initially hidden, burden of loss. Through their evolving relationship, James masterfully explores the complexities of shared sorrow, forgiveness, and the enduring power of memory, questioning the nature of remembrance and reconciliation. This work stands as a powerful testament to the human need to honor the departed.