Books matching: cowardice
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- #1
Save:Lord Jim by Joseph Conrad is a complex novel that delves into themes of cowardice, redemption, and colonialism. The story follows the protagonist, Jim, who dishonors himself at sea due to an act of cowardice. He seeks redemption in the small realm of Patusan, where his heroism lifts a local tribe from oppression but ultimately leads to tragic consequences when his past catches up with him. The narrative is intricately woven, exploring the West's colonial paternalism and the flawed nature of humanity through the character of Jim.
He was an inch, perhaps two, under six feet, powerfully built, and he advanced straight at you with a slight stoop of the shoulders, head forward, and a fixed from-under stare which made you think of ... - #2
Save:"The Four Feathers" by A.E.W. Mason tells the story of Harry Feversham, a young English officer who resigns from his military posting before it is sent into duty, resulting in his friends and fiancee sending him white feathers as symbols of cowardice. The plot follows Harry's journey of redemption, as he sets out to prove his courage and honor, while also exploring themes of loyalty, love, and sacrifice. The narrative structure includes perspectives from characters like Ethne and Durrance, adding depth to the adventure story and highlighting the struggles and relationships of the main characters.
Lieutenant Sutch was the first of General Feversham's guests to reach Broad Place. He arrived about five o'clock on an afternoon of sunshine in mid June, and the old red-brick house, lodged on a south... - #3
Save:'The Red Badge of Courage' by Stephen Crane is a classic novel set during the American Civil War, following the journey of young Union soldier Henry Fleming as he grapples with fear, courage, and the harsh realities of war. Through vivid descriptions and chaotic battle scenes, the book explores Henry's transformation from cowardice to bravery, depicting the psychological toll of warfare and the challenges of personal growth amidst the horrors of the battlefield. Crane's writing style captures the confusion and brutality of war, offering a poignant portrayal of a soldier's rite of passage from youth to manhood.
- #4
Save:'Flashman at the Charge' is the fourth volume in 'The Flashman Papers' series by George MacDonald Fraser, following the escapades of General Sir Harry Flashman VC during the Crimean War. Flashman, a celebrated military officer and outrageous cad, finds himself entangled in the Charge of the Light Brigade, taken prisoner by the Russians, and inadvertently involved in acts that appear heroic but stem from his cowardice. The book humorously portrays Flashman's exploits across various countries, showcasing his wit, charm, and unapologetic nature as a cowardly yet somewhat likeable character.
The plot unfolds through historical events such as the Charge of the Light Brigade, Flashman's imprisonment, escape, and encounters with various adversaries and romantic interests. The writing style is characterized by authentic dialogue, intricate battle scenes, and dry wit, maintaining a balance between humor and historical accuracy. George MacDonald Fraser's meticulous research and roguish hilarity bring to life the character of Flashman, a cowardly cad navigating through a series of misadventures with a unique perspective on the world around him.
The moment after Lew Nolan wheeled his horse away and disappeared over the edge of the escarpment with Raglan’s message tucked in his gauntlet, I knew I was for it. Raglan was still dithering away to ...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Flashman Papers ) - #5
Save:The Absolutist by John Boyne is a novel set in the aftermath of World War I, following the story of Tristan Sadler, a young soldier who is haunted by a dark secret from his time in the trenches. The book explores themes of friendship, love, guilt, and betrayal as Tristan seeks closure by revealing the truth to Will's sister Marian. Through Tristan's perspective, the reader is taken on a journey of self-discovery, reflecting on the horrors of war and the complexities of relationships during a tumultuous time in history. The writing style is described as intense, vivid, and distressing, providing a detailed portrayal of life and death in the trenches, while also delving into the emotional turmoil of the characters.
“There was the vicar in Leeds,” she said, smiling a little as she tapped her lower lip with her index finger. “And the spinster from Hartlepool whose tragic secret was to prove her undoing. The actres... - #6
Save:Welcome to Hard Times by E.L. Doctorow is a gritty western novel that opens with the arrival of the Bad Man from Bodie, who destroys the small town of Hard Times, leading to a desperate attempt to rebuild. The story follows the town's struggles with evil, cowardice, and revenge, all while exploring themes common to westerns and literature in general. Doctorow's writing style is stark but beautiful, effectively portraying a doomed town and its stubborn survivors.
The Man from Bodie drank down a half bottle of the Silver Sun’s best; that cleared the dust from his throat and then when Florence, who was a redhead, moved along the bar to him, he turned and grinned... - #7
Save:'Frankenstein' by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley is a classic horror novel that tells the story of Dr. Victor Frankenstein and the creature he creates. The plot explores themes of creation, rejection, loneliness, and the consequences of playing god. The writing style varies from flowery and old English to deep and meaningful, with a focus on exploring human emotions and philosophical questions through the perspectives of both Dr. Frankenstein and his monster.
I AM BY BIRTH a Genevese; and my family is one of the most distinguished of that republic. My ancestors had been for many years counsellors and syndics; and my father had filled several public situati... - #8
Save:'Flashman in the Great Game' is a historical fiction novel set in India during the Great Mutiny of 1857. The story follows the adventures of the antihero Harry Flashman as he navigates through dangerous missions, encounters with Russian villains, and relationships with intriguing female characters like the rebel Rani of Jhansi. The writing style is described as skillful in weaving historical facts into the narrative, providing a blend of adventure, humor, and educational insight into the tumultuous events of the time period.
They don't often invite me to Balmoral nowadays, which is a blessing; those damned tartan carpets always put me off my food, to say nothing of the endless pictures of German royalty and that unspeakab...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Flashman Papers ) A US soldier's memoir of his tour of duty in the Vietnam conflict is detailed in "If I Die in a Combat Zone, Box Me Up and Ship Me Home" by Tim O'Brien. The author doesn't shy away from portraying the horrors of war and the internal struggles faced by soldiers, including the conflicted feelings towards the war and the impact of combat on their psyche. O'Brien's writing style is described as concise, powerful, and engaging, reminiscent of Hemingway but more intimate, with detailed imagery that transports readers to the realities of the Vietnam War.
- #10
Save:"Mephisto" by Klaus Mann is a semi-biographical novel that follows the story of actor Hendrik Hoefgen during the rise of Nazi Germany. The book portrays Hoefgen's journey from a struggling actor to a national celebrity, showcasing his willingness to sacrifice integrity for fame. Set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany, the novel delves into themes of corruption, moral dilemmas, and the ease with which individuals can succumb to inhumanity. Mann's writing style is described as capturing a specific time and place with historical accuracy, while also providing a piercing psychological probe into the motives behind cowardice and betrayal.
The last year of the world war and the year immediately following the November revolution in Russia were a great period for the avant-garde theater in Germany, despite the country’s severe economic di...
