Titoli in Storia e critica della letteratura

Set against the backdrop of Scotland in 1736, Heart of Mid-Lothian unfolds a gripping historical tale filled with chaos and intrigue, centered around a riot and the turbulent events that follow. Join us as we explore the rich drama of this captivating era. - Summary by Deon Gines

In one of Ibsen’s most profound late-period plays, alongside classics like “The Master Builder” and “John Gabriel Borkman,” “Little Eyolf” delves into the life of Albert Allmers, a writer torn between his desire for literary immortality and the love for his handicapped son, Eyolf. Rita Allmers, his devoted wife, is consumed by an obsessive love for Albert, resenting any rival, be it Eyolf, Alberts literary aspirations, or his devoted sister Asta. The tragic death of Little Eyolf, possibly at the hands of the enigmatic Rat-Wife, sets off a psychological storm among the three ...

This podcast features a captivating 1903 translation of Étienne Pivert de Senancours seminal work, Obermann. Initially overlooked by the reading public when it was first released during the tumultuous Napoleonic Wars in 1804, the novel experienced a revival nearly three decades later, earning accolades from literary giants such as Balzac, George Sand, and even Franz Liszt. Obermann is an epistolary novel presented in the form of a personal diary, where the protagonists inner turmoil takes center stage over physical action. Spanning a decade, the narrative captures Obermanns reflections on ...

In this timeless classic, we follow the journey of Pip, an orphan whose life takes unexpected turns as he navigates the complexities of wealth and social status. From humble beginnings as a blacksmiths apprentice under the watchful eye of Joe to the allure of becoming a gentleman fueled by the promise of a mysterious inheritance, Pips aspirations shape his identity. As he indulges in a lavish lifestyle, he distances himself from the genuine connections of his past, including the steadfast Joe and the wise Biddy. His misguided attempts to uplift his friend Herbert and win the heart of the ...

In the High Valley is the final installment of Susan Coolidges beloved What Katy Did series. The tale unfolds with Lionel Young and his sister Imogen embarking on an adventure to the enchanting yet remote High Valley in America, leaving behind their familiar hometown of Devonshire, England. Lionel is eager to invest in Geoffrey Templestowes cattle business, while Imogen grapples with her biases against American life, struggling to adapt to her new surroundings. Meanwhile, Clover Templestowe, now joyfully married in the High Valley, finds it challenging to connect with Imogen at first. As the ...

Dive into the charming world of Ralph Connors Glengarry School Days, a beloved classic that captures the essence of rural Ontario during the formative years around Canadian confederation. With millions of copies sold, Connor, one of Canadas most celebrated novelists of the early 20th century, presents a collection of warm and humorous sketches drawn from his own childhood memories. While he aimed to write moral fiction for adults, his gentle storytelling has captivated young readers for generations, making his work a staple in school anthologies. Join us in exploring this nostalgic journey ...

George Sand, the bold pen name of Amantine-Lucile-Aurore Dupin (1804-1876), is renowned for defying the societal norms expected of women in 19th-century France, as well as for her passionate affairs, including a significant relationship with Frederic Chopin. In The Devil’s Pool, originally published in 1846 as La Mare au Diable, Sand weaves a captivating tale inspired by her own childhood in the picturesque rural region of Berri. The story follows Germain, a young widower compelled by his father-in-law to seek a new wife to help care for his three small children. Join us as we explore themes...

Hunger (Norwegian Sult) is a groundbreaking novel by Norwegian author Knut Hamsun, first published in its final form in 1890. Often considered the literary catalyst for the 20th century, this work exemplifies modern literature driven by psychological depth. With a unique blend of intrigue and humor, Hamsun explores the irrationality of the human mind through the lens of his own experiences. Set against the backdrop of late 19th century Kristiania, the story follows a starving young man whose grip on reality begins to unravel in the shadows of a bustling metropolis. As he desperately attempts ...

Fair Rewards by Thomas Beer is a profoundly distinguished novel that showcases exceptional writing, blending style, sophistication, and a unique personality with a vivid imagination. It approaches brilliance, though its sharp, cold cynicism can be chilling and even painful to read. The title itself reflects this irony, derived from Shakespeares line, These be the fair rewards of those that love. It highlights the story of Mark Walling, a blind and devoted idolater, who, despite his selfless love for Margot, faces selfishness, ingratitude, and a lack of consideration in return. As Mark evolves ...

Join Cherry Ames as she embarks on an intriguing private duty nursing assignment on a remote Canadian island, where she uncovers a captivating mystery tied to a mining operation. In this thrilling installment of the Cherry Ames series, readers will find a nurse who channels her inner detective, reminiscent of the beloved Nancy Drew. Spanning 27 books from 1943 to 1968, this series, crafted by Helen Wells and Julie Tatham, promises captivating adventures and engaging mysteries. (Summary by Maria Therese)

In a picturesque Sicilian fishing village of the nineteenth century, the Malavoglia family stakes everything on a cargo of lupin nuts, hoping for a prosperous outcome. When disaster strikes and the cargo is lost at sea, a cascade of misfortunes befalls the family, leading to heart-wrenching tragedies. Revered as a masterpiece of social commentary within Italy yet overlooked by the broader world, The House by the Medlar Tree stands shoulder to shoulder with the works of Zola, Dickens, and Balzac among the greats of European literature. This poignant tale also inspired Luchino Viscontis 1948 ...

Dive into the musings and insights of a modest scholar as he navigates the complexities of thought and observation. - Summary by Mark Leder

Dive into a curated selection of LibriVox volunteers’ favorite chapters, each chosen for its unique charm. From pivotal moments in classic novels to beautifully articulated ideas, and exceptional performances by our talented readers, this collection promises to captivate and inspire. We hope these chapters bring you as much joy as they have brought us. (Summary by David Barnes).

Join us on a fascinating journey through the pages of an Elizabethan translation of a 14th-century travelogue, attributed to the enigmatic Sir John Mandeville. Allegedly embarking on his adventures in 1322, Mandeville traversed a multitude of lands including Turkey, Tartary, Persia, Syria, Arabia, Egypt, Libya, Ethiopia, Chaldea, Amazonia, and India. Once hailed as the foremost travel authority of his time, his imaginative narratives have since been scrutinized and often dismissed as fanciful. Despite its dubious accuracy, this work has inspired countless poets and intrigued scholars for ...

Step into the captivating world of Giacomo Casanova, the legendary Venetian adventurer, writer, and notorious lover. Born in 1725 in Venice and passing away in 1798 in Dux, Bohemia (now Duchcov, Czech Republic), Casanovas life was anything but ordinary. With a mix of charm, cunning, and, at times, aggression, he navigated the complexities of romance and society, often leaving a trail of lovers and debts in his wake. In his renowned autobiography, *Histoire de ma vie* (Story of My Life), he provides a vivid account of his escapades, detailing his encounters with 122 women and offering a rare ...

The Decameron, subtitled Prencipe Galeotto, is a captivating collection of 100 novellas by the renowned Italian author Giovanni Boccaccio. Likely begun in 1350 and completed by 1353, this medieval masterpiece is celebrated for its rich tapestry of love stories that range from the erotic to the tragic. Its influence is undeniable, with many great writers, including Shakespeare and Chaucer, drawing inspiration from its bawdy and thought-provoking tales. (from Wikipedia)

Dive into Whartons timeless tale of an aging spinster socialite, navigating the treacherous waters of love and wealth in Victorian society. With her heart torn between financial security and true passion, her journey reveals the complexities of ambition, societal expectations, and personal sacrifice. (Summary by BellonaTimes)

Edith Wharton, a masterful chronicler of late 19th Century New York Society, invites readers into the tumultuous life of Undine Sprague in this captivating novel. A beautiful and ambitious socialite from Apex City, Undine navigates the complexities of love, marriage, and ambition as she climbs the social ladder from New York to France, leaving a trail of broken hearts and shattered lives in her quest for happiness. Join us as we explore Whartons incisive commentary on the pursuit of status and the human condition. (Summary by Karen Merline)

This captivating collection features the works of Mark Twain, including -The £1,000,000 Bank-Note -Mental Telegraphy -A Cure for the Blues -The Enemy Conquered; or, Love Triumphant -About all Kinds of Ships -Playing Courier -The German Chicago -A Petition to the Queen of England -A Majestic Literary Fossil. Published in 1893 during a tumultuous era for the United States, marked by uncertainty, rapid immigration, labor issues, and rising social unrest, this collection reflects Twains struggles as he faced personal bankruptcy and the heartbreaking loss of his beloved daughter, Suzy. Yet amid ...

Dive into the captivating world of Giovanni Verga, a master of Italian verismo, whose poignant short stories bring to life the struggles and triumphs of working-class characters in 19th-century rural Sicily. Among these tales is Rustic Chivalry, or Cavalleria rusticana, which inspired the famous opera by Mascagni. Join us as we explore the rich tapestry of Sicilian life through Vergas insightful narratives. - Summary by Mary J