Author
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
1854-1909
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford (1854-1909) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
Salve Venetia, gleanings from Venetian history; vol. I
"Salve Venetia, gleanings from Venetian history; vol. I" by F. Marion Crawford is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the rich and multifaceted history of Venice, paying homage to its unique character and enduring legacy through a blend of fact, legend, and imagery. The author delves into the city's origins, the establishment of its culture, and the significant events that shaped its development over the centuries. The opening of "Salve Venetia" presents a vivid and poetic portrayal of Venice as more than just a city; it is depicted as a living entity with a vibrant personality that has persisted over time, largely independent of its inhabitants. Crawford discusses the mythical beginnings of Venice amidst the threats posed by barbarian invasions during the decline of the Roman Empire. He captures the resilience of the early Venetians as they took refuge in the lagoon's islands, forming a community characterized by their devotion to tradition and the divine. Through this introduction, Crawford sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the themes of identity, beauty, and survival that will unfold throughout the rest of the volume.
Salve Venetia, gleanings from Venetian history; vol. II
"Salve Venetia, gleanings from Venetian history; vol. II" by F. Marion Crawford is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the intricate political and social structures of Venice, particularly focusing on the aristocratic governance and the city's legal and penal systems. The text provides a rich exploration of Venetian history through the lens of its aristocracy, criminal justice, and societal norms, potentially appealing to readers interested in history, politics, and social structures. The opening of the book introduces a detailed examination of the aristocratic magistracies in Venice at the beginning of the sixteenth century. It describes the flexible yet rigid nature of the Venetian government, emphasizing its long-standing aristocratic form and the intricate checks imposed to prevent any individual from gaining too much power, especially the Doge. The narrative then transitions to various historical anecdotes showcasing the complex interplay between law and social order, including the mystique surrounding notorious criminals known as "bravi" and the severe penalties imposed for crimes, ultimately setting the stage for a deeper investigation into Venetian society, governance, and its eventual decline.
The Upper Berth; By the Waters of Paradise
"The Upper Berth; By the Waters of Paradise" by F. Marion Crawford is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The first story, "The Upper Berth," revolves around a mysterious and unsettling experience of the protagonist aboard a ship, exploring themes of isolation, the supernatural, and human fear. "By the Waters of Paradise" unfolds the melancholic tale of a young man, growing up in a gloomy castle and grappling with a sense of fatalism, until he encounters a ghostly figure that transforms his life. The beginning of "The Upper Berth" sets a vivid scene aboard a ship where a group converses listlessly until Brisbane, a strong and intriguing character, claims to have seen a ghost. The atmosphere becomes charged as Brisbane recounts his experiences, foreshadowing ominous events. His crossing on the "Kamtschatka" takes a dark turn when he discovers an unsettling history about his assigned state-room—Room 105. As strange happenings and disappearances unfold, including the disappearance of his roommate, the tension escalates into horror, compelling him towards a confrontation with the supernatural. Meanwhile, the opening of "By the Waters of Paradise" introduces us to a nostalgic and melancholic protagonist reflecting on his unhappy childhood and the peculiar influence of his old Welsh nurse, laying the groundwork for themes of love, loss, and the uncanny as his life takes an unexpected turn following the encounter with the woman in his dreams.
The Witch of Prague: A Fantastic Tale
"The Witch of Prague: A Fantastic Tale" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. This story weaves a tale of love, loss, and the supernatural, centering on a character known as the Wanderer, who searches for his beloved Beatrice, believed to be dead but whom he believes he has seen in a crowded church in Prague. The narrative is deeply atmospheric, contrasting the grandeur of the Gothic church and the emotional tumult of the protagonist as he navigates through a world tinged with mystery and despair. The opening of the book establishes a somber and haunting mood, set in a crowded church filled with mournful faces as a mass is being conducted. It introduces the Wanderer, who is profoundly affected by the presence of a woman he believes to be his lost love, Beatrice. As he tries and fails to reach her amidst the throng, the narrative vividly captures his desperation and longing. The vibrancy of the music and the ancient rites surround his experience, highlighting his internal conflict as he pushes through the crowd, ultimately losing sight of her again. The atmosphere thickens around themes of unfulfilled love and mystical forces conveyed through the intriguing character of Unorna, who later enters the scene and adds layers of complexity to the story.
The Diva's Ruby
"The Diva's Ruby" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story intertwines themes of love, ambition, and hidden treasures, beginning with the mysterious Baraka, a beautiful Tartar girl who harbors a dangerous secret about a ruby mine. Her love for a European traveler leads to a perilous adventure that explores the depths of desire against a backdrop of cultural constraints and personal longing. The opening of the novel introduces Baraka, who, despite her beauty and charm, grapples with unrequited love for a striking traveler who is unaware of her affections. After she reveals the secret of a hidden ruby mine to him, they embark on a treacherous journey together, facing mistrust and the dangers of their environment. Baraka's desperation grows as she seeks to win the traveler’s love, leading to desperate choices that intertwine their fates amidst the allure of wealth and the threats posed by her own family. As the story unfolds, the stakes become increasingly high, merging themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for identity against the tumultuous backdrop of life and death.
Greifenstein
"Greifenstein" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel likely written during the late 19th century. The story introduces us to Frau von Sigmundskron, the old baroness, who struggles with dire poverty alongside her daughter, Hilda. The backdrop is the majestic yet decaying castle of Sigmundskron, a testament to the noble lineage that has fallen on hard times, as they confront societal expectations and personal pride amidst their financial ruin. The opening of the novel paints a stark picture of the lives of Frau von Sigmundskron and Hilda, revealing their relentless struggles for survival as they cling to their noble heritage. The mother makes extreme sacrifices to ensure her daughter is fed, hiding their dire circumstances from those around them. The narrative sets up significant relationships, notably the connection between Hilda and Greif, a distant cousin, whose family has wealth and promise. As Greif prepares to return home from university, it becomes apparent that their lives are intertwined with societal expectations and past grievances that threaten to complicate their future. The themes of pride, sacrifice, and the struggles of maintaining nobility in the face of poverty are already prominent in this beginning, promising a deep exploration of character struggles against broader societal mores.
Wandering ghosts
"Wandering Ghosts" by F. Marion Crawford is a collection of supernatural tales written in the late 19th century. The opening story, "The Dead Smile," introduces us to a sinister family secret involving Sir Hugh Ockram, his dying condition, and the unsettling relationship between his son, Gabriel Ockram, and his niece, Evelyn Warburton. The tale is set against a backdrop of dark family history and eerie occurrences, hinting at themes of betrayal and the haunting legacies of the past. At the start of the collection, we enter the shadowy world of Ockram Hall, where Sir Hugh's cryptic remarks about the future of Gabriel and Evelyn ominously foreshadow a deeper family curse. As Sir Hugh lies on his deathbed, his ghastly smile becomes central to the narrative, seemingly embodying the weight of his unconfessed sins. The tension escalates as Gabriel and Evelyn confront disturbing secrets that suggest their future may be intertwined with a malicious past, leaving them haunted by a "secret" that could lead to their ruin. The atmosphere is thick with dread, and supernatural elements loom over the characters, shaping their fates in an unsettling manner.
Casa Braccio, Volumes 1 and 2
"Casa Braccio, Volumes 1 and 2" by F. Marion Crawford is a historical novel set in the mid-19th century. The story primarily revolves around Sister Maria Addolorata, a young woman from the noble Braccio family, who is thrust into a life in a Carmelite convent against her wishes, laden with themes of duty, repression, and personal sacrifice in a rigid patriarchal society. The narrative begins by painting a vivid picture of Subiaco, its history, and the struggle of its inhabitants, introducing the reader to the melding of personal anguish with broader societal constraints. The opening of the novel establishes its historical context and the central character's plight as Maria Addolorata grapples with her forced commitment to a life of seclusion and the weight of family tradition that demands her presence in the convent. It unfolds her internal conflict vividly; while she possesses beauty and a longing for life outside the convent walls, she is resigned to her fate owing to familial pressure and societal norms. The dynamics between Maria and the abbess, her aunt, foreshadow the tension and conflict to come, as they represent contrasting views on faith, duty, and individuality. Additionally, the narrative introduces other key figures, such as the passionate Annetta and the enigmatic doctor, Angus Dalrymple, hinting at a broader web of relationships that will develop as the story progresses.
An American Politician: A Novel
"An American Politician: A Novel" by F. Marion Crawford is a work of fiction likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative introduces us to a circle of characters in Boston society, where social status, political opinions, and personal relationships intertwine. Central figures include Mrs. Sam Wyndham, who navigates Boston's elite social scene, and John Harrington, a politically minded reformer whose speeches shake the very foundations of that society. The opening of the novel establishes a social gathering at Mrs. Wyndham's home, characterized by her conversation with various guests, including the enigmatic Mr. Vancouver and the young Sybil Brandon. As the dialogue unfolds, we see Mrs. Wyndham's relationships and opinions about politics, her friends, and her social standing come to light. The arrival of John Harrington introduces a fresh perspective on politics that challenges the status quo. Joe Thorn, the young English woman new to Boston, becomes increasingly invested in the dynamic discussions around reform and political integrity, setting the stage for an evolving narrative that explores themes of love, ambition, and societal expectations.
The Three Fates
"The Three Fates" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around George Wood, a young man struggling with his identity and aspirations in the shadow of his father's financial ruin and past failures. As George navigates his literary ambitions while resisting the conventional paths expected by his father, the narrative explores themes of family expectations, societal pressures, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. At the start of the novel, readers are introduced to Jonah Wood, George's father, who is disillusioned and disappointed with his son for not following a traditional career path in business. George, on the other hand, has developed an aversion to the world of finance, stemming from his father's catastrophic failures linked to their family legacy. Despite his father's hopes, George immerses himself in writing and literary criticism, feeling unfulfilled yet determined to define his own future. In an encounter with Constance and Grace Fearing, two orphaned sisters, George experiences a mixture of intrigue and discomfort, reflecting his inner turmoil and the struggle between his artistic ambitions and the societal expectations that weigh heavily upon him.
Stradella
"Stradella" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story is set in Venice and revolves around the lives of a wealthy senator, Michele Pignaver, and his niece, Ortensia, who is an accomplished young woman but is forced into an unwanted marriage with her uncle. Central to the plot is the arrival of the talented musician and composer Alessandro Stradella, whose presence threatens the senator’s plans and ignites a passionate and tumultuous romance with Ortensia. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a complex interweaving of music, love, and societal expectations. It introduces us to Senator Pignaver, a man of culture and ambition, who, having decided to marry his orphaned niece, views the arrangement as a favor done for her, not realizing her inner turmoil. As Ortensia grapples with her feelings about her forthcoming marriage and her growing attraction to Stradella, the stage is ripe for conflicts involving artistic integrity, the constraints of society, and the pursuit of true love. The dynamic among these characters hints at a story filled with emotional tension and the struggles against oppressive social norms.
Arethusa
"Arethusa" by F. Marion Crawford is a historical novel written in the early 20th century. Set in 14th century Constantinople, the narrative centers around Carlo Zeno, a Venetian merchant with a colorful past, as he navigates both the complexities of the city and the societal issues of his time, including slavery and intrigue. The story aims to explore themes of identity, survival, and social class through the lens of its characters, particularly focusing on the dynamics between privilege and poverty. At the start of the narrative, we are introduced to Carlo Zeno, who is settling into his life as a merchant in Constantinople after a tumultuous past. He observes the city around him, filled with its vibrant cultures and discord between different nationalities, particularly between Venetians and Genoese. As the plot unfolds, Zeno receives a letter from a friend in Venice, requesting him to purchase a slave girl for his wife, setting the stage for the exploration of human relationships under the conditions of slavery. The narrative simultaneously introduces a young girl named Zoë, living in the depths of poverty with her ailing mother, whose fate is intricately linked to Zeno’s decision about the slave market. This opening serves as a critical setup for the characters' intertwining destinies and the moral dilemmas they face.
Ave Roma Immortalis, Vol. 2 Studies from the Chronicles of Rome
"Ave Roma Immortalis, Vol. 2" by Francis Marion Crawford is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work examines the chronicles of Rome, diving into the rich and turbulent history of the city through different regions and eras. The narrative brings to life notable figures such as Nicholas Gabrini, known as Rienzi, who played a pivotal role in the political dynamics of Rome during a chaotic period. The opening of the volume introduces the Seventh Region, Regola, highlighting its complex legacy, which includes the infamous Cenci family and the dramatic life of Rienzi. It paints a vivid picture of Rome's social fabric, characterized by a mixture of mechanics, Jews, and turbulent nobility. The focus is on the contrasting personalities that shaped the city’s historical landscape, specifically the rise and fall of Rienzi, his aspirations for reform, and the inevitable chaos that followed his attempt to bring order to a city riddled with corruption and decay. This section sets the tone for an exploration of Rome’s storied past, weaving together personal ambition and broader societal upheaval.
Paul Patoff
"Paul Patoff" by F. Marion Crawford is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The story likely revolves around the complex relationships between the Patoff brothers, Paul and Alexander, set against the backdrop of the mystique and cultural richness of Constantinople. At the heart of the narrative is Paul, a young man working in the Russian embassy, grappling with his emotions and the consequences of his brother's impulsive actions, which culminate in a significant crisis. The opening of the novel introduces Paul Patoff amidst a contemplative moment in the Valley of the Sweet Waters, where he narrates the tale he's been asked to tell. Through rich imagery and metaphoric language, a sense of foreboding is established, hinting at themes of love, rivalry, and the nature of life itself. As Paul reflects on the wind's melancholic message, we are introduced to his younger brother, Alexander, who arrives for a visit after their mother's travels for health. The brothers' dynamic is quickly established, characterized by a tension stemming from their differing temperaments and the shadow of their mother's favoritism towards Alexander. The narrative unfolds into a risky encounter involving a mysterious veiled woman, escalating into a predicament that forces Paul to confront his brother's recklessness and their complex bond.
Sant' Ilario
"Sant' Ilario" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores the lives of its main characters against the backdrop of the political tensions of the time, delving into themes of love, class distinctions, and personal growth. Central to the narrative is Anastase Gouache, a soldier and painter whose experiences and relationships shape the trajectory of the story. At the start of the novel, we meet Anastase Gouache, a young Zouave whose military service has transformed him both physically and mentally. Reflecting on his past, including his relationships with political conspirators and society members, he grapples with the divide between his youthful ideals and the reality of mature responsibilities. The narrative is set in Rome, where a chance encounter leads to his being injured by a carriage belonging to the Montevarchi family, introducing him to the beautiful yet sheltered Donna Faustina. Their initial interaction hints at potential romantic tension, while discussions of societal expectations and familial duties unfold, setting the stage for further exploration of their intertwined fates.
Man Overboard!
"Man Overboard!" by F. Marion Crawford is a novella that falls under the genre of maritime fiction, written in the early 20th century. This compelling tale revolves around the themes of loss, identity, and the supernatural, set against the backdrop of life aboard a seafaring vessel. It explores the tragic fates that befall sailors and delves into the psychological impact of haunting memories associated with the maritime life. The story follows the journey of the "Helen B. Jackson" and its crew, particularly focusing on twin brothers, Jim and Jack Benton. During a fierce gale, Jim goes overboard, leading to a series of eerie events that affect the crew profoundly. After Jim's disappearance, Jack returns to shore, seemingly haunted by his brother's loss, and as he embarks on a new life with a girl named Mamie, the lines between the living and the dead begin to blur. As Jack’s behavior grows increasingly strange, the narrator witnesses unsettling occurrences that suggest Jim's spirit may still be present. The tale escalates to a haunting climax where Jack tragically succumbs to a mysterious force, leaving readers questioning the boundaries of grief and identity. Overall, Crawford expertly weaves themes of love and loss into a gripping narrative filled with an eerie, suspenseful atmosphere.
Via Crucis: A Romance of the Second Crusade
"Via Crucis: A Romance of the Second Crusade" by F. Marion Crawford is a historical novel written during the late 19th century. Set against the backdrop of the Second Crusade, the story follows Gilbert Warde, the son of a nobleman who faces betrayal, loyalty, and the tumult of civil war in England. As Gilbert navigates a world of political intrigue and personal conflict, the novel explores themes of honor, love, and revenge. The beginning of the novel introduces readers to a richly described setting in Stoke Regis Manor, where Lady Goda awaits the return of her husband, Raymond Warde, who has gone to support the Empress Maud against King Stephen. The narrative delves into Lady Goda's conflicted emotions and her dissatisfaction with her marriage. As the plot unfolds, we witness the complexities of familial relationships, particularly the bond between Gilbert and his mother, and foreshadowing of treachery involving Sir Arnold de Curboil, a knight with whom she shares a questionable connection. The opening sets the stage for the intertwining of personal ambitions and the wider historical context of war, giving readers a taste of the drama and moral dilemmas that will unfold.
The Ralstons
"The Ralstons" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the lives and relationships of the Lauderdale family, particularly focusing on the two daughters, Charlotte and Katharine, and their father, Alexander Lauderdale, against the backdrop of wealth, societal expectations, and personal conflicts. The novel scrutinizes issues of class, morality, and the consequences of familial ties. The opening of the narrative introduces Alexander Lauderdale Jr., a man deeply concerned about the futures of his daughters, highlighting the contrasts between them: Charlotte, married to a congressman, and Katharine, who remains at home. The father's strict demeanor and unwavering religious convictions set the stage for familial tensions, particularly regarding his daughters' lives choices and the expectations he has placed upon them. As the story unfolds, a looming family crisis emerges with the impending death of the wealthy Robert Lauderdale, their uncle, which threatens to complicate existing relationships and reveal the underlying secrets and desires of the characters, especially concerning Katharine's secret marriage to John Ralston. This rich tapestry of character dynamics ensures a compelling exploration of love, duty, and the struggle for individual identity within the constraints of family and society.
Cecilia: A Story of Modern Rome
“Cecilia: A Story of Modern Rome” by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story unfolds in the picturesque setting of Rome, focusing on the character of Cecilia Palladio, a modern Italian girl grappling with the complexities of love, identity, and societal expectations. The narrative touches on themes of duty, desire, and the conflict between personal aspirations and family obligations, particularly as Cecilia navigates her relationships with her friends and family. The opening of the novel introduces two central characters: Lamberto Lamberti, a rugged sailor and man of action, and Guido d'Este, an introspective dreamer with royal connections. They meet in a tranquil garden in Rome, where their conversation reveals the tension in Guido's life due to the demanding and exploitative nature of his aunt, the Princess Anatolie. As Lamberti offers his loyal friendship, Guido reveals his struggles with familial pressure and the threat of disgrace, highlighting the emotional depths both characters face. Their friendship contrasts with the expectations placed upon Guido by his aristocratic lineage, setting the stage for the ensuing complexities when Cecilia enters their lives and further intertwines their fates.
The Undesirable Governess
"The Undesirable Governess" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Lady Jane and her family, who are in search of a governess for their two adventurous daughters, Gwendolen and Evelyn. The introduction sets the stage for the family's dynamics and the impending arrival of a governess whose lack of conventional appeal is humorously highlighted, piquing the reader's curiosity about how her character will impact the Follitt household. At the start of the narrative, Lady Jane Follitt and her husband Colonel Follitt engage in a banter about the urgent need for a governess to corral their mischievous daughters. We learn through witty exchanges that their previous governess left under suspicious circumstances, leading to Lady Jane's candid advertisement for a new one, seeking someone decidedly unattractive. The unexpected arrival of Ellen Scott, the new governess, sets off a series of humorous and poignant events that reveal her hidden depths and the family's evolving perceptions. The opening chapters cleverly explore themes of beauty, appearance, and societal expectations through intelligent dialogue and character interactions, establishing a lighthearted yet engaging tone that invites readers to discover how the relationships will unfold in this whimsical tale.
Ave Roma Immortalis, Vol. 1 Studies from the Chronicles of Rome
"Ave Roma Immortalis, Vol. 1" by F. Marion Crawford is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work delves into the rich and storied history of Rome, exploring its legendary beginnings, the formation of its empire, and the significant events that have shaped its cultural and political landscape. The narrative encompasses various eras, highlighting the evolution of Rome itself from a humble settlement to a monumental center of power. The opening of the book begins with a dramatic account of the founding of Rome, focusing on the fabled figure of Romulus and the early shepherds who settled among the hills. It portrays the trials and tribulations faced by these early inhabitants, emphasizing the blend of history and legend that characterizes the city’s origins. It recounts pivotal moments, such as the transition from monarchy to republic, the struggles between patricians and plebeians, and the birth of notions of liberty and governance that would shape Western civilization. This introductory section sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Rome's illustrious past, offering readers an engaging glimpse into the dramatic events and legendary figures that have influenced the identity of the eternal city.
Katherine Lauderdale; Vol. 1 of 2
"Katherine Lauderdale" by F. Marion Crawford is a fictional novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative begins by focusing on complex relationships and character dynamics as John Ralston interacts with his friend Hamilton Bright and reflects on his feelings for Katharine Lauderdale, a woman he admires. The themes of love, societal expectations, and personal struggles are likely central to the storyline as Ralston navigates his emotions and relationship with Katharine. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to John Ralston, who grapples with feelings of inadequacy and a desire for love amid his struggles with alcoholism. In a conversation with Bright, Ralston reveals his discontent with his life and expresses a longing for change. The dynamic between Ralston and Bright hints at the tensions in Ralston's life, particularly as he becomes entangled with Katharine Lauderdale, a beautiful and determined young woman. The opening also sets the stage for Ralston's eventual secretive proposal of marriage to Katharine, emphasizing their love against the backdrop of civil obligations, societal expectations, and Ralston's internal conflicts. The vivid dialogue and well-drawn characters indicate a deeper exploration of emotional and moral dilemmas that are to unfold in the narrative.
Doctor Claudius, A True Story
"Doctor Claudius, A True Story" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story centers around Dr. Claudius, a Swedish mathematician living in Heidelberg, who finds himself grappling with existential questions about life, loneliness, and the meaningfulness of his academic pursuits. As he reflects on his life, Claudius unexpectedly inherits a vast fortune from his recently deceased uncle, which brings further complexity to his already introspective existence. At the start of the narrative, we meet Dr. Claudius as he contemplates his loneliness and aging while surrounded by the trappings of his academic life. He is depicted as a solitary character, dedicated to his studies but feeling increasingly disconnected from the world around him. The opening also introduces a letter revealing his unexpected inheritance, prompting Claudius to delve into the implications of such wealth. Through his interactions and the thoughts about a mysterious woman he glimpses in the castle grounds, we see his paradoxical struggle between desiring connections with others and a profound sense of independence. The beginning sets a tone of introspection and inquiry, posing questions on the nature of wealth, purpose, and human connection that are likely to be explored throughout the novel.
A Roman Singer
"A Roman Singer" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around Nino Cardegna, a gifted yet humble young tenor who grows up under the care of Cornelio Grandi, a professor of philosophy. As Nino's musical talent blossoms, the narrative explores themes of love, ambition, and the social barriers that can complicate personal relationships, particularly as Nino becomes infatuated with Hedwig von Lira, a countess. The opening of the novel introduces us to Cornelio Grandi, who shares the backstory of his life and his relationship with Nino, whom he raised after the boy's mother passed away. Cornelio recounts how Nino, originally an ugly, dirty child with a remarkable voice, has grown into a talented young man. As Nino begins to study music under the mentorship of Maestro Ercole De Pretis, it is clear that he possesses a passion for singing that surpasses all else, despite Cornelio's hopes for him to pursue a scholarly path. The initial chapters establish the connection between Nino's burgeoning talent and his emerging feelings for Hedwig, setting a foundation for the intertwining of their fates amid the backdrop of societal expectations and romantic intrigue.