The Cenci

Alexandre Dumas

Synopsis

Beatrice Cenci was the son of Francesco Cenci, an aristocrat who, due to his violent temper and immoral behaviour, had found himself in trouble with the papal justice more than once. In Rome, they lived in a mid 16th century mansion in Regola district, built over the ruins of a previous medieval fortified palace. Together with them lived also Beatrice’s elder brother Giacomo, Francesco’s second wife Lucrezia Petroni, and Bernardo, the young boy born from the man’s second marriage. Among their other possessions was a castle in Petrella Salto, a small village near Rieti, north of Rome. Even at home Francesco Cenci behaved as a brute. He abused his wife and his sons, and had reached the point of committing incest with Beatrice. He had been jailed for other crimes, but thanks to the leniency which the nobles were treated with, he had been freed too soon. The girl had tried to inform the authorities about the frequent mistreatments, but nothing had happened, although everybody in Rome knew what kind of person Francesco Cenci was. When he found out that his daughter had reported against him, he sent Beatrice and Lucrezia away from Rome, to live in the family’ country castle. Exasperated, the four Cenci had no better choice than to try and get rid of Francesco, and all together they organized a plot.

Disponible depuis: 12/12/2018.

D'autres livres qui pourraient vous intéresser

The Murder on the Links

Agatha Christie

The Murder on the Links is a work of detective fiction by Agatha Christie, first published in the US by Dodd, Mead & Co in March 1923, and in the UK by The Bodley Head in May of the same year. It is the second novel featuring Hercule Poirot and Arthur Hastings. The UK edition retailed at seven shillings and sixpence and the US edition at $1.75.The story takes place in northern France, giving Poirot a hostile competitor from the Paris Sûreté. Poirot's long memory for past or similar crimes proves useful in resolving the crimes. The book is notable for a subplot in which Hastings falls in love, a development "greatly desired on Agatha's part... parcelling off Hastings to wedded bliss in the Argentine."Reviews when it was published compared Mrs Christie favourably to Arthur Conan Doyle in his Sherlock Holmes mysteries. Remarking on Poirot, still a new character, one reviewer said he was "a pleasant contrast to most of his lurid competitors; and one even suspects a touch of satire in him."

Voir livre

American Notes - Full Cast Drama

Charles Dickens

In "American Notes," Charles Dickens embarks on a captivating journey across the Atlantic in the 19th century to offer his keen observations and critiques of the young United States. Published in 1842, this travelogue chronicles Dickens' experiences during his tour of the United States and Canada, showcasing his unique ability to blend sharp social commentary with vivid narrative storytelling.

The narrative begins with Dickens setting sail from Liverpool to Boston, and from the moment he arrives on American soil, he is met with great enthusiasm and anticipation. Yet, his initial enthusiasm gradually gives way to a critical exploration of American society, culture, and institutions. Dickens paints a picture of a nation marked by stark contrasts – the raw, untamed beauty of the American landscape juxtaposed with the bustling cities, and the democratic ideals of freedom and equality set against the glaring issues of slavery and inequality.

Throughout the journey, Dickens encounters a wide array of characters and situations that highlight the complexities of American life. He offers poignant insights into the horrors of slavery, the shortcomings of the prison system, and the social divisions that permeate American society. His narrative serves as a powerful indictment of these injustices and an impassioned call for reform.

However, "American Notes" is not solely a critique of the United States. Dickens also portrays the genuine hospitality and kindness of many Americans he meets along the way, and he highlights their eagerness to embrace and engage with the ideas and literature of the Old World. The travelogue ultimately reflects Dickens' conviction that positive change is possible through the exchange of ideas and the continuous dialogue between nations.

Voir livre

The Secret Garden | Audiobook...

Frances Hodgson Burnett

Step into the enchanting world of "The Secret Garden," the timeless classic by Frances Hodgson Burnett, narrated by the soothing voice of Elizabeth Grace and produced by Slumber Studios. 
This audiobook is designed ease restless nights and to gently lull you into a peaceful, restorative sleep. 
Close your eyes, relax, and let Elizabeth Grace’s calming narration transport you to the Yorkshire moors, where young Mary Lennox discovers a hidden garden that transforms her life and the lives of those around her. Experience the magic, wonder, and healing power of this heartwarming tale while easing into a state of deep relaxation. 
At Slumber Studios, we create soothing content designed to help you unwind and drift off effortlessly. This audiobook features slow, gentle narration paired with soft background music, offering the perfect escape into dreamland. 
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to end your day, this is the perfect choice. Simply press play, get comfortable, and let Elizabeth’s serene voice guide you through the magical world of "The Secret Garden."  Wake up feeling refreshed, with a renewed sense of peace and wonder for the day ahead.

Voir livre

The Collected Short Stories of...

Algernon Blackwood

Enter the strange, whispering world of Algernon Blackwood, one of the most influential masters of supernatural and cosmic horror. The Collected Short Stories of Algernon Blackwood brings together some of his most enduring and unsettling works—stories where nature itself becomes conscious, hostile, and profoundly unknowable. 
This essential collection features classics such as “The Willows” and “The Wendigo,” two of the most celebrated weird tales ever written, alongside atmospheric gems including “Sand,” “The Glamour of the Snow,” and “The Man Whom the Trees Loved.” Across these stories, Blackwood explores themes of isolation, psychological unraveling, ancient forces, and humanity’s fragile place within a vast and indifferent universe. 
Both eerie and beautifully written, these tales rely on suggestion rather than shock, building a slow, creeping dread that lingers long after the final page. Ideal for fans of classic horror, cosmic terror, and literary supernatural fiction, this volume stands as a cornerstone of early twentieth-century weird literature. 
Perfect for readers who enjoy H. P. Lovecraft, Arthur Machen, and other pioneers of psychological and cosmic horror.

Voir livre

The Bagman's Story - From their...

Charles Dickens

Charles Dickens is a name that dominates the landscape of English literature.  From his early years of hardship he rose to become one of the great novelists of any age.  But amongst his other talents were that of short story writer, turning his pen to many subjects and genres as well as travel articles, speaking tours and as an advocate for social justice.  He was also amongst the first to commercialise Christmas and a publisher of various periodical magazines for which he also contributed and encouraged the talents of very many others. 
Dickens died at only 58 leaving an incredible legacy that is still admired to this day.

Voir livre

The Unparalleled Adventures of...

Edgar Allan Poe

"The Unparalleled Adventure of One Hans Pfaall" (1835) is a short story by Edgar Allan Poe. The story is regarded as one of the early examples of the modern science fiction genre. The story traces the journey of a voyage to the Moon.
The story opens with the delivery to a crowd gathered in Rotterdam of a manuscript detailing the journey to the moon by Hans Pfaall. The letter is brought by balloon by an inhabitant of the moon. He had been sent by Pfaall to Rotterdam with the letter for Burgomaster Superbus Von Underduk after an absence of five years. The manuscript, which comprises the majority of the story, sets out in detail how Hans Pfaall, a mender of bellows, contrived to reach the Moon by benefit of a revolutionary new balloon and a device which compresses the vacuum of space into breathable air. The journey takes him nineteen days.

Voir livre