Author
Harold Frederic
1856-1898
Harold Frederic (1856-1898) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Harold Frederic
The Damnation of Theron Ware
"The Damnation of Theron Ware" by Harold Frederic is a novel published in 1896. It follows a young Methodist pastor in upstate New York whose sheltered worldview begins to unravel through encounters with a Catholic priest, a man of science, and an artistic woman. As Theron awakens to new intellectual and cultural ideas, he questions his faith, his calling, and everything he once believed. His transformation leads to unexpected consequences that will alter the course of his life forever.
The Return of the O'Mahony: A Novel
"The Return of the O'Mahony: A Novel" by Harold Frederic is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, focusing on the experiences of soldiers in a beleaguered company. It introduces Zeke Tisdale, a veteran soldier, and Andrew Linsky, a new recruit, exploring camaraderie and conflict amidst the harsh realities of war and the complexities of identity. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Zeke Tisdale, regarded as the unofficial leader of Company F, who is known for his bravery in combat but has failed to earn a promotion due to his behavior during peacetime. As Company F waits in the muddy Virginia wilderness, they encounter a group of new recruits, including Linsky, an awkward Irishman. The interactions among the soldiers reveal a mix of camaraderie and prejudice, particularly towards Linsky, who struggles to find acceptance in the company. The tone reflects on the burden of war, survival, and the chance encounters that can significantly alter the course of lives, as Zeke and Linsky’s paths seem destined to intertwine dramatically in the face of impending conflict.
Seth's Brother's Wife: A Study of Life in the Greater New York
"Seth’s Brother's Wife: A Study of Life in the Greater New York" by Harold Frederic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story delves into the complexities of family dynamics and social conflicts within the backdrop of a rural American community, primarily focusing on the Fairchild family and their struggles after the death of Cicely Fairchild. Central to the narrative are the characters of Lemuel Fairchild, his brother Seth, and their strained relationships with ambitious relatives and hired help amidst an evolving social landscape. The opening of the novel sets a somber tone, introducing us to the household of the Fairchild family in the aftermath of Cicely's passing. We meet Alvira and Milton, the hired hands, who engage in candid conversations reflecting the longstanding tensions between the Fairchilds and the Richardsons. As the grim realities of rural life and familial expectations unfold, Lemuel emerges as a broken man burdened by grief and familial responsibilities. We see hints of conflict arising from the presence of Sabrina, a strong-willed aunt with a deep sense of family pride, further foreshadowing the enduring strife tied to their lineage and social standing. The narrative swiftly immerses readers in a world characterized by both personal loss and the collective struggle for dignity and respect in a changing society.
The Market-Place
"The Market-Place" by Harold Frederic is a novel published posthumously in 1899. It follows Joel Thorpe, a powerful financier who builds a fortune through a rubber syndicate and marries into English aristocracy. After achieving wealth and leisure, he loses his sense of purpose and the commanding strength that once defined him. The novel explores the ethics of money-getting and the role of ambition in modern business, presenting finance as a field for daring and imagination.
The Young Emperor, William II of Germany A Study in Character Development on a Throne
"The Young Emperor, William II of Germany" by Harold Frederic is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book explores the character development of William II, the young Kaiser of Germany, as he ascends the throne amid significant political changes in Europe. The narrative provides insight into William's upbringing, the influence of his predecessors, and the legacy of the Hohenzollern dynasty. At the start of the work, the author sets the stage for a pivotal moment in history: the proclamation of William II as Emperor during a time marked by upheaval and shifting power dynamics in Europe. The opening chapters detail the contrasting contexts of an international exhibition in Paris and the political gatherings in Chicago, juxtaposed against the strong assertion of monarchical power in Germany, led by the young William. Through an exploration of his childhood and education, particularly the innovative decision to send him to public school, the text hints at the complexities of his character and the impending challenges he would face in governance and leadership as he inherits the legacy of his predecessors.
In the Valley
"In the Valley" by Harold Frederic is a historical novel published in 1890. Set in New York's Mohawk Valley from 1757 to 1777, it follows a Dutch colonist caught between a charismatic British officer and his loyalty to the American cause. Both men vie for the same woman's affection against the backdrop of the Revolutionary War. The story builds toward the pivotal Battle of Oriskany, blending historical detail with personal drama during a time when diverse colonial communities were forging a new American identity.
In the Sixties
"In the Sixties" by Harold Frederic is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative is set during the tumultuous period of the American Civil War and focuses on the lives of characters in a small farming community in northern New York. The story examines the impact of the war on personal relationships and local politics, particularly through the experiences of the Beech family and their conflicts with their abolitionist neighbors. At the start of the story, the narrator recalls significant events from the past that shaped his upbringing, particularly his relationship with Abner Beech, a steadfast farmer known for his strong opinions against abolitionist sentiments. The novel opens with a vivid portrayal of the Beech family dynamics, especially the tension between Abner and his son Jeff, who is at odds with his father's values amid changing social landscapes. As the narrative unfolds, issues of loyalty, rebellion, and the repercussions of the war on family and community structures begin to surface, establishing a rich backdrop for the characters' struggles and moral dilemmas.
The Deserter, and Other Stories: A Book of Two Wars
"The Deserter and Other Stories: A Book of Two Wars" by Harold Frederic is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The book explores themes related to the Civil War era, focusing on the lives of those affected by war, including deserters and their families. Central to the first story is Job Parshall, a young boy working on a farm, where he encounters Mose Whipple, a deserter trying to find his way back to his ailing father. The opening of the story introduces Job on a bitterly cold winter morning as he carries out his chores on the Teachout farm. During his tasks, he discovers a handmade ring that leads to discussions about Mose Whipple, who has deserted the army and is associated with Job's memories of his own family struggles. As Job learns of Mose's plight and his father's illness, he resolves to visit the ailing old man, leading to a fateful encounter with Mose in the barn. Their interactions reveal the harsh realities of their circumstances, underscoring the emotional weight of war's impact on individuals and families.
The Lawton Girl
"The Lawton Girl" by Harold Frederic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Jessica Lawton, a young woman returning to her hometown of Thessaly after a period of self-imposed exile, bringing with her the burdens of a troubled past. As Jessica navigates her way back into a community rife with judgment and prejudice, she finds herself entangled with significant figures like the wealthy Mr. Boyce and her former teacher, Reuben Tracy. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Jessica Lawton's tumultuous return to Thessaly, a place that once felt grand but now seems small and alienating. Her father, Ben Lawton, struggles with his responsibilities and the weight of their family's past, while Jessica wrestles with her emotions upon encountering the townspeople and reconciling her former life with her present. As she seeks to redefine herself in a society that remembers her as the "prodigal daughter," the opening chapters set the tone for a complex examination of family, societal expectations, and personal redemption. The interactions of the characters hint at themes of love, societal judgment, and the struggle to reinvent oneself against the backdrop of a community steeped in gossip and scrutiny.
Gloria Mundi
"Gloria Mundi" by Harold Frederic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story begins with the chance encounter of two main characters—an English-speaking young woman traveling in France and a young man who is excited yet anxious about his journey to England. Their meeting unfolds amidst misunderstandings and cultural differences, presenting a compelling exploration of identity, social class, and personal aspirations. At the start of the novel, we see the tension that arises when a young woman traveling alone in a reserved train compartment must confront a young man who inadvertently invades her space due to a ticketing mishap. As both characters navigate their initial misunderstandings, they engage in a hesitant but revealing conversation that highlights their unique backgrounds and feelings about their journeys. The young man, who is on the brink of a significant change in his life associated with an inheritance, finds himself inexplicably drawn to the young woman, who presents a blend of self-assurance and intellectual depth. Their interaction sets the stage for a deeper exploration of their identities and what each seeks in the world around them.
Marsena, and Other Stories of the Wartime
"Marsena and Other Stories of the Wartime" by Harold Frederic is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The stories in this collection explore themes of love, loss, and the impact of war on individuals and communities, particularly set against the backdrop of the American Civil War. The central character introduced in the opening portion is Marsena Pulford, a mysterious artist with a melancholic demeanor, whose intricate past and connections to the war may become pivotal in his interactions with the vibrant village of Octavius and the spirited Julia Parmalee. At the start of the narrative, we find Marsena Pulford, who has just moved to the village of Octavius, drawing the intrigue of its residents due to his romantic appearance and reserved character. As winter approaches, Marsena struggles with poverty, yet finds newfound fortune with a business partner, Newton Shull, leading to an increase in local interest and social interactions. However, despite his professional success, Marsena remains an enigma, maintaining a distance from the villagers. The dynamics shift when Julia Parmalee, a notable figure in the community, begins to capture his attention with her lively spirit and ambition. Their budding camaraderie unfolds amid the backdrop of escalating wartime pressures, hinting at deeper connections and the challenges that lie ahead for all involved.
Index for Works of Harold Frederic Hyperlinks to All Chapters of All Individual Ebooks
"Index for Works of Harold Frederic" by Harold Frederic is a compilation of the author's various writings, likely constructed during the late 19th century. This book serves as a catalog or index referencing Frederic's literary contributions, including novels, essays, and stories that explore themes of society, politics, and personal drama. In this index, readers will find a comprehensive list of Frederic's notable works such as "The Damnation of Theron Ware," "Seth’s Brother’s Wife," and "Gloria Mundi," among others. Each title is accompanied by its respective contents, providing insights into the themes and narratives explored within each work. From examining the struggles of individual characters within broader societal contexts to addressing significant historical events, Frederic's writings present a rich tapestry of late 19th-century life and thought, making the index a valuable resource for scholars and fans of his literature.
March Hares
"March Hares" by Harold Frederic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows David Mosscrop as he navigates his thirtieth birthday with feelings of despair and self-reflection while encountering a young woman named Vestalia Peaussier on Westminster Bridge. Their meeting sparks a connection that challenges both of their perspectives on life, suggesting themes of hope, social class, and the complexity of human relationships. The opening of "March Hares" sets an introspective tone as David initially grapples with a sense of failure and existential dread on his birthday. He contemplates the meaning of his existence while people-watching on the bridge, feeling a connection to the lives of the passersby. When he spots Vestalia, a woman he recognizes from the British Museum, there is a moment of intrigue that soon blossoms into a light-hearted and flirtatious exchange. Their conversational chemistry reveals Vestalia's struggles, as she is temporarily without a home, and highlights David's emerging interest in her welfare. This dynamic sets the stage for an exploration of their respective challenges and the potential for change in their lives, all while lending a sense of warmth and optimism to their fateful encounter.
Mrs Albert Grundy—Observations in Philistia
"Mrs Albert Grundy—Observations in Philistia" by Harold Frederic is a fictional work likely written during the late 19th century. The narrative introduces Mrs. Albert Grundy, a social matron representing a satirical take on the standards and behaviors of the British middle class, particularly focusing on the themes of respectability and propriety within her domestic sphere. The story reflects on the paradoxes and contradictions inherent in societal norms and expectations, especially as they relate to gender and class. At the start of the story, we are presented with a glimpse into the life of Mrs. Grundy and her family in their home, "Fernbank." The opening details her preoccupation with maintaining a respectable household, her reluctance towards contemporary literature deemed inappropriate for her daughters, and her thoughts on a recent scandal surrounding a novel written by a controversial author. The narrative relocates to a dinner party with various guests, revealing a tension between social aspirations and the mundane realities of life, showcasing the trivialities of societal interactions and the intricacies of personal relationships. This opening serves to establish the tone of satire, hinting at deeper commentaries on the moral fabric of society as seen through the lens of a concerned mother and community figure.
The Copperhead
"The Copperhead" by Harold Frederic is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story is set against the backdrop of the American Civil War and revolves around the life of Abner Beech, a farmer who becomes increasingly isolated from his neighbors due to his strong anti-war stance and personal beliefs. The novel explores themes of loyalty, social divisions, and the impact of political ideologies on personal relationships, as well as detailing the struggles and moral dilemmas faced by its characters in a time of national crisis. The opening of "The Copperhead" introduces us to the protagonist Abner Beech through the reflections of a young boy who lived on his farm. It emphasizes Abner's stature as a respected farmer, his deviation from communal norms due to his opposition to the prevailing abolitionist sentiment, and the resultant social ostracism. As the narrative unfolds, it captures the erosion of his standing in the community, symbolized by his declining relationships and the perception of his household amid the rising tide of war fervor. Abner's conflict with his only son, Jeff, who chooses to enlist and go against his father’s beliefs, sets a poignant tone for the ensuing plot, invoking questions of duty, family loyalty, and the personal costs of one's convictions.