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Books matching: tragic hero

100 result(s)

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Showing 1 - 10 of 100 
  1. #1

    The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
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    "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald is a classic American novel set in the 1920s, depicting the excesses and struggles of the Jazz Age. The story follows the enigmatic Jay Gatsby who transforms himself to win back his lost love, Daisy Buchanan, showcasing themes of the corrupting influence of wealth and the elusive nature of the American Dream. Fitzgerald's writing style is praised for its clear, melodious prose with engaging rhythm, and the book is noted for its rich symbolism and portrayal of flawed and complex characters.

    He didn’t say any more, but we’ve always been unusually communicative in a reserved way, and I understood that he meant a great deal more than that. In consequence, I’m inclined to reserve all judgmen...

  2. #2

    The Death of King Arthur by Peter Ackroyd
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    The Death of King Arthur is a modern verse translation of the Alliterative Morte d'Arthur by Simon Armitage. The book follows the epic tale of King Arthur and his knights as they journey from Britain to Rome, engaging in battles and facing challenges along the way. Armitage's translation captures the essence of the original poem, filled with action, gore, and heroic feats. The narrative culminates in the tragic death of King Arthur, delivering a mix of macho heroism and emotional depth.

    In the old wild days of the world there was a king of England known as Uther Pendragon; he was a dragon in wrath as well as in power. There were various regions in his kingdom, many of them warring on...

  3. #3

    Ajax by John Harrison, Shomit Dutta, Sophocles
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    'Ajax' by Sophocles delves into the tragic tale of the great hero Ajax from the Trojan War. The play explores themes of pride, jealousy, and the consequences of one's actions, as Ajax's downfall is depicted through his inability to accept defeat and his ultimate tragic end. The narrative also touches on the moral complexities of heroism, burial rites, and the debate surrounding what truly defines a hero in the eyes of the Greek audience.

    The writing style of 'Ajax' by Sophocles is engaging and thought-provoking, as it presents a timeless story that resonates with modern audiences. The play is filled with dramatic tension, moral dilemmas, and complex character portrayals, particularly highlighting the inner struggles and flaws of the protagonist Ajax. Through skillful storytelling, Sophocles weaves a compelling narrative that prompts readers to reflect on themes of honor, redemption, and the fine line between pride and downfall.


  4. #4

    The Natural by Bernard Malamud
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    Bernard Malamud's first novel, "The Natural," published in 1952, is a baseball tale that delves into the life of Roy Hobbs, a gifted yet flawed ballplayer. The story explores themes of loss, pain, morality, and obsession, portraying a darker and more nuanced narrative than the movie adaptation. With elements of mythological allusions and Arthurian references, the book follows Roy's journey as he navigates the world of baseball, striving to be the best player despite facing personal and professional challenges.

    Malamud's writing style in "The Natural" is described as metaphysical and complex, featuring strange turns of phrase, vivid descriptions, and symbolic storytelling. The novel captures the suspense and interest of a good sports narrative, intertwining elements of magic realism and mythic symbolism to present a gripping tale of a tragically flawed hero in the realm of baseball.

    “I shoulda been a farmer,” Pop Fisher said bitterly. “I shoulda farmed since the day I was born. I like cows, sheep, and those horniess goats — I am partial to nanny goats, my daddy wore a beard — I l...

  5. #5

    The Never Hero - Chronicles Of Jonathan Tibbs by T. Ellery Hodges
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    "The Never Hero" in the series "Chronicles Of Jonathan Tibbs" by T. Ellery Hodges follows the protagonist, Jonathan Tibbs, a 22-year-old college student who unexpectedly becomes humanity's last hope against an alien invasion. Through a series of events, Jonathan finds himself battling invincible monsters with the twist that time resets each time he defeats a monster, leaving only one person who remembers his heroic deeds. delves into themes of heroism, self-sacrifice, and the psychological journey of the main character, all while exploring the concept of hero worship and the Hero's Journey.

    The writing in the book is highly praised for its quality, with particular emphasis on the author's skill in weaving inner dialogue and psychological exposition. The narrative is described as character-driven, offering insightful discussions on hero mythology, pop culture, and philosophical musings. The author's incorporation of Joseph Campbell's monomyth perspective adds depth to the storyline, making it a refreshing and well-written take on the superhero genre.

    HIS hand glided over the mahogany, lingering on the table’s smooth surface, cool to the touch as he moved his fingertips slowly from one picture frame to the next. The table with the photos stood out ...

  6. #6

    Count Belisarius by Robert Graves
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    Count Belisarius by Robert Graves is a historical fiction novel that delves into the life and achievements of the titular character, a prominent general during the rule of Justinian and Theodora. The narrative is presented through the perspective of a eunuch serving Belisarius' wife, providing a dispassionate and remote view of the events. The book captures Belisarius' military campaigns, strategic genius, and the political intrigues of the Byzantine court in the 6th century AD, all while maintaining a focus on historical accuracy and vivid descriptions of ancient warfare.

    WHEN he was seven years old, Belisarius was told by his widowed mother that it was now time for him to leave her for a while, and her retainers of the household and estate at Thracian Tchermen, and go...

  7. #7

    Call Me the Breeze by Patrick McCabe
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    'Call Me the Breeze' by Patrick McCabe follows the life of Joey Tallon, a complex and deluded character navigating through Northern Ireland in the 1970s and 80s. Joey's journey is marked by failed dreams, tragic schemes, and a constant search for meaning in a hostile world. The narrative style shifts between first and third person, offering glimpses into Joey's inner turmoil and his tumultuous relationships with figures like Mona and Jacy. As Joey's story unfolds, the reader is taken on a rollercoaster ride where reality blends with fantasy, success intertwines with tragedy, and enlightenment comes at a significant cost.

    The novel explores themes of intellectual curiosity, writing as a coping mechanism, and the blurred lines between delusion and reality. Through Joey's character, McCabe delves into the struggles of a tormented protagonist trying to make sense of his tumultuous surroundings while grappling with his own inner demons. The narrative weaves together elements of Irish history, personal introspection, and existential questioning, creating a compelling yet challenging read that forces the reader to confront the complexities of human nature and the pursuit of self-discovery.


  8. #8
    Stormbringer
    Book 6 in the series:Elric Saga

    Stormbringer - Elric Saga by Michael Moorcock
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    'Stormbringer' in the 'Elric Saga' by Michael Moorcock is the final novel of the series, focusing on Elric's journey to save the world from ultimate Chaos. The plot revolves around Elric wielding the evil and sentient runesword Stormbringer in a desperate attempt to battle against forces of Chaos and Law. The writing style is described as fast-paced, with grand-scale action sequences, battles, gods, and demons intertwined to create a thrilling fantasy adventure.

    In the final book of the Elric saga, 'Stormbringer' portrays Elric as a tragic hero who becomes a mere tool for the powerful Stormbringer, showcasing the theme of the weapon controlling events while the man is merely a vessel. The narrative culminates in a climactic battle between Law and Chaos, leading to a new age for Earth, with Elric ultimately meeting his fate as prophesied by Stormbringer.

    PROLOGUE For ten thousand years did the Bright Empire of Melniboné flourish. Ten thousand years before history was recorded—or ten thousand years after history had ceased to be chronicled, reckon it h...

    (Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Elric Saga )

  9. #9

    I Am Mordred by Nancy Connor Springer
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    'I Am Mordred' by Nancy Connor Springer is a reimagining of the Arthurian legend focusing on the character of Mordred, portrayed as a sympathetic and complex figure torn between love and hate for his father, King Arthur. The story delves into Mordred's struggles with his fate, his desire for peace, and his journey to make his father acknowledge him, all while exploring themes of destiny, family, and the nature of free will. The writing style is described as engaging, well thought out, and offering a new perspective on Mordred's story within the Camelot setting.


  10. Barbara Tuchman's 'Stilwell and the American Experience in China, 1911-45' delves into the complex and tumultuous relationship between General George Stilwell and Chiang Kai-shek during WWII. Through Tuchman's lucid prose style, the book sheds light on the struggles over American policy in developing a sustainable Chinese Nationalist army. Stilwell, portrayed as an upright individual with the best interests of China at heart, faces challenges from both the American administration and Chiang Kai-shek, leading to a narrative that highlights the deficiencies of the Chiang regime and the inability to modernize the Chinese military without strong internal support.

    LIEUTENANT STILWELL, aged twenty-eight, met China for the first time in November 1911 at the moment when the most ancient of independent nations stumbled into the twentieth century. Six weeks before h...

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