Showing titles in Literary History & Criticism

Dive into THE PERMANENT HUSBAND, a gripping psychological novella by the renowned Russian author Fyodor Dostoyevsky. This compelling narrative explores the intricate and tumultuous relationship between Velchaninov and Trusotsky. Velchaninov, the protagonist, finds himself entwined with the legacy of Trusotskys recently deceased wife, revealing layers of love, guilt, and existential reflection. Critics have lauded this work as one of Dostoyevsky’s finest due to its masterful style and structure, with Alfred Bem describing it as one of the most complete works by Dostoyevsky in regards to its ...

Dive into the captivating world of *The Great Gatsby*, where a vibrant cast of characters navigates the opulence and moral decay of the fictional town of West Egg on Long Island during the summer of 1922. At the heart of the tale is the enigmatic millionaire Jay Gatsby, whose relentless pursuit of the beautiful Daisy Buchanan encapsulates the essence of longing and desire. F. Scott Fitzgeralds magnum opus delves into profound themes such as decadence, idealism, social change, and the excesses of the Jazz Age, presenting a poignant cautionary tale about the American Dream. Initially published ...

Step into the enchanting world of A Christmas Carol, where we meet Ebenezer Scrooge, a cantankerous old miser whose life is forever changed after a series of ghostly visits. Guided by the spirit of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, and the three spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, Scrooge embarks on a transformative journey that reveals the profound truth that redemption is possible for even the most hardened of hearts. - Summary by Wikipedia and jvanstan

Honora Klaper is not just a pretty face—she is a remarkable woman with grace, intelligence, and charm that captivates everyone around her. But today, she embarks on a unique quest, one that transcends the ordinary pursuits of love or wealth. Her mission is nothing less than a revolutionary pursuit of education at Cambridge University! Set against a backdrop where womens education was a rarity, this compelling story, penned by a woman who herself was educated at Cambridge, illuminates the challenges and triumphs faced by a determined woman striving for knowledge. - Summary by Stav Nisser.

In a world where a gentlemans identity is defined more by his essence than his actions, the Amberson familys reputation hangs in a delicate balance. At the heart of this struggle is George Amberson Minafer, the sole heir expected to uphold his familys proud traditions. Despite the elegance provided by wealthy relatives, George is a young man consumed by superficiality. This is a consequence, perhaps, of his mothers unwavering love, which prioritizes his happiness over her own. As Georges perceptive uncle notes, “life and money both behave like loose quicksilver in a nest of cracks.” Amidst...

In the enchanting novella “The Ball at Sceaux,” part of Balzac’s monumental series “The Human Comedy,” we are introduced to Émilie de Fontaine, the spirited youngest daughter of a noble yet struggling family in post-revolutionary France. With her father desperately seeking a suitable match, Émilie, headstrong and somewhat spoiled, has stubbornly dismissed all suitors who do not meet her lofty standards. Among her demands? A husband must be “the son of a peer of France.” As she clings to her ideals, the unfolding events reveal the ironies of love and social status. Balzac’s ...

Dive into the captivating world of Edith Wharton, the renowned American author of The House of Mirth, with this collection of seven intriguing short stories. The titular tale, The Hermit and the Wild Woman, offers a departure from Whartons typical themes, exploring the life of a reclusive hermit who, haunted by childhood trauma, seeks solitude. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a former nun, driven from her cloister by her sinful longing for the simple pleasure of bathing. The remaining six stories transport you into the opulent yet complex realm of high society, where ...

The Real Thing unfolds an ironic narrative centered around an artist and two uniquely intriguing models. It delves into the complex interplay between reality in our everyday lives and the artistic methods employed to capture or reflect that reality. Although the protagonist is an illustrator rather than a writer, it’s easy to see that James may be drawing inspiration from his own experiences and those of fellow writers. (summary by Clifford)

Enid Yandell (October 6, 1870 - June 13, 1934) was a distinguished American sculptor who honed her craft under the guidance of renowned artists Auguste Rodin and Frederick William MacMonnies. Known for her portraiture, garden sculptures, and public monuments, Yandell also spent time in Paris, where she maintained a studio. In her semi-autobiographical book, *Three Girls in a Flat*, she recounts her experiences as a sculptor for the Horticultural Building at the 1893 Worlds Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Co-written with two friends, this episodic narrative follows the lives of three young ...

In the fourth volume of the acclaimed series In Search of Lost Time, the intricate lives of M de Charlus and other men-women in the opulent world of French high society intertwine with the narrators passionate and evolving relationship with Albertine. Experience the depth of emotion and the complexities of love in this beautifully woven narrative, narrated by Michael OKelly.

The Rise and Fall of César Birotteau (1837) is a captivating tale from Balzacs renowned series The Human Comedy. Set against the vibrant backdrop of post-Napoleonic Paris, this story explores the dramatic shift in society as the aristocracy and the church cede power to an ambitious middle class of merchants, landlords, lawyers, and bankers. César Birotteau, a kind-hearted and unassuming perfumer, has risen from modest beginnings to earn the respect of his community and achieve commercial success. However, as he strives to ascend even higher, he becomes ensnared in a perilous web of financial...

Delve into the enchanting world of The Tale of Genji (Genji Monogatari), a timeless masterpiece of Japanese literature crafted by the noblewoman Murasaki Shikibu in the early eleventh century, during the illustrious Heian Period. Often hailed as the worlds first novel, this work intricately weaves a rich tapestry of characters and events that echo the complexities of life and love. Written primarily for the aristocratic women of the time, Genji features a vast array of characters—over four hundred—with deep and nuanced development. Instead of a traditional plot, the narrative unfolds ...

In a tale that explores the depths of ambition and despair, Victor Frankenstein, a tormented genius driven by the aspirations of ancient alchemists and modern science, creates a living being. Yet, upon its awakening, he fails to nurture and educate this creature, leaving it to navigate a harsh and unforgiving world alone. Subjected to fear and violence due to its monstrous appearance, the creature soon turns its anguish toward its creator, demanding a companion to share in its sorrow. Moved by the creatures tragic story, Victor initially agrees but ultimately hesitates, awakening a torrent of ...

Dive into Balzacs Cousin Pons, a poignant tale that stands as one of the final masterpieces in his sweeping series, The Human Comedy. First published in 1847 alongside its companion novel Cousin Betty, this narrative contrasts the vengeful pursuits of a bitter woman with the gentle story of Pons, a timid and innocent man who finds himself at the mercy of his more affluent relatives. Through richly crafted character studies and a powerful critique of greed and materialism, Balzac paints a vivid picture of mid-19th-century French society. Renowned as one of the eras greatest novelists, his ...

La Grande Bretèche serves as a captivating addendum to Balzacs Another Study of Woman, concluding a series of intriguing stories shared around a dinner table. This particular tale, unveiled to the guests in the early hours of the morning, delves into themes of marital infidelity and revenge, leaving some listeners with restless minds long after the night is over. (Nicholas Clifford)

Torrents of Spring, also known as Spring Torrents (Russian Вешние воды), is a captivating novel by Ivan Turgenev, penned between 1870 and 1871 during his fifties. The narrative follows young Russian landowner Dimitry Sanin as he experiences the intoxicating highs of first love while visiting the enchanting city of Frankfurt, Germany. This novel stands out as one of Turgenevs masterpieces, rich in autobiographical elements that reflect his own life experiences. - Summary by Wikipedia. A Russian original of this novel is also available as a LibriVox audiobook.

First published in 1915, *The Good Soldier* can be described as a melodrama of English upper-class infidelities, intricately pieced together and retold in a non-linear fashion by a narrator who sometimes seems half-asleep. While this perspective holds some truth, many readers have recognized the novels enchanting voice, pioneering narrative style, and sharp portrayal of erotic repression as the hallmarks of a literary masterpiece. In 2015, the BBC ranked *The Good Soldier* 13th on its list of the 100 greatest British novels. (Summary by Peter Dann)

Dive into a captivating journey of personal transformation with Flight of the Shadow, a mesmerizing novel by George MacDonald. This enchanting tale serves as both a poignant exploration of the dangers of secrecy and a celebration of the power of honesty. Although designed to resonate with a teen audience, its profound themes will linger long after the last page is turned. Written in the elegant style reminiscent of Gothic novels from the nineteenth century, this story weaves together elements of relationships, redemption, and the illuminating choice to live in the light. - Summary by Beth ...

Resurrection stands as the final major work of fiction published by Tolstoy during his lifetime. With this poignant novel, Tolstoy shines a light on the injustices of man-made laws and the hypocrisy entrenched within institutionalized religion. Initially published in the magazine Niva to support the resettlement of the Dukhobors, the narrative follows nobleman Nekhlyudovs quest for redemption after a long-buried sin resurfaces. His fleeting affair with a maid, which led to her dismissal and subsequent fall into prostitution, haunts him as he grapples with guilt and strives to alleviate her ...

Experience the magic of Charles Dickens as he brings to life six captivating scenes from David Copperfield. Abridged and performed during his unforgettable American Tour of 1867-1868, this collection showcases the author’s powerful storytelling like never before. - Summary by Michael Armenta