Author
John Galsworthy
1867-1933
John Galsworthy (1867-1933) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by John Galsworthy
The Forsyte Saga - Complete
"The Forsyte Saga - Complete" by John Galsworthy is a series of three novels and two interludes published between 1906 and 1921. It chronicles the lives of an upper-middle-class English family acutely conscious of their "new money" status. At its center is Soames Forsyte, a solicitor who views himself as a "man of property" through his material possessions, yet finds no happiness. The saga explores marital discord, forbidden love, and family secrets that span generations, as the Forsytes navigate desire, betrayal, and the consequences of past actions.
The Forsyte Saga, Volume I. The Man Of Property
"The Forsyte Saga, Volume I" by John Galsworthy is a series of three novels and two interludes published between 1906 and 1921. The work chronicles an upper-middle-class English family keenly aware of their "new money" status. At its center is Soames Forsyte, a solicitor who views himself as a "man of property" through his accumulation of possessions—including his beautiful wife Irene. His obsessive desire to own and control leads to jealousy, forbidden love, and tragic consequences that ripple across generations, entangling his daughter and cousin in the family's troubled past.
Justice
"Justice" by John Galsworthy is a play written in 1910. William Falder, a young clerk, alters a cheque to help his sweetheart Ruth escape her brutal husband. Convicted of forgery, he receives three years in prison. The harsh sentence destroys him, and upon release, he faces an impossible choice between employment and the woman he loves. Part of a campaign to reform British prison conditions, the play examines how the legal system can crush those it means to correct.
The Freelands
"The Freelands" by John Galsworthy is a novel likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the Freeland family, particularly focusing on brothers Felix, Tod, and their experiences amidst changing societal values and the tensions within their rural community. The narrative begins with a poignant depiction of rural life and quickly introduces the complexities of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the looming impacts of industrialism. The opening of "The Freelands" paints a vivid landscape of Worcestershire's countryside and introduces main characters such as Felix Freeland, an author with critical views on society, and his brother Tod, who leads a more rustic life. As Felix navigates through London to attend a family meeting, he contemplates the mediocrity of those around him, juxtaposed against Tod’s existence amongst nature. The contrasting lives of the Freeland brothers are set against a backdrop of familial responsibilities, societal upheaval, and the young generation's potential for rebellion, particularly through Tod’s children, Derek and Sheila, who embody the tensions between tradition and change in their community. This setup suggests a story rich with themes of personal and social conflict.
The Country House
"The Country House" by John Galsworthy is a novel set in the late 19th century, exploring the lives and interactions of the English gentry. The story centers on Mr. Horace Pendyce, a landlord with a strong belief in the social responsibilities of landownership, and his dignified household during a gathering in their country house. The narrative reveals the complex relationships among the guests, particularly highlighting themes of social class, individualism versus community obligation, and romantic intrigue. The opening of the book introduces the setting and key characters as they arrive at Worsted Skeynes, Mr. Pendyce's estate. The guests include notable attendees like the Hon. Geoffrey Winlow and Mrs. Jaspar Bellew, who add to the dynamics of the gathering. Mr. Pendyce is portrayed as a man of strong opinions, particularly about agricultural practices and the virtues of community over individualism, while Mrs. Bellew's striking presence stirs intrigue among the men, particularly George Pendyce, who feels a romantic pull towards her despite her complicated marital status. This sets the stage for the social interactions, underlying tensions, and personal aspirations that will unfold throughout the narrative.
The Forsyte Saga, Volume III. Awakening To Let
"The Forsyte Saga, Volume III" by John Galsworthy is a series of three novels and two interludes published between 1906 and 1921. It chronicles an upper-middle-class English family keenly aware of their "new money" status. The central figure, solicitor Soames Forsyte, sees himself as a "man of property" through material accumulation, yet finds no happiness. The saga explores marriage, divorce, obsession, and forbidden love across generations, culminating when second cousins Fleur and Jon fall in love, unaware of their parents' troubled past that threatens to keep them apart forever.
The Forsyte Saga, Volume II. Indian Summer of a Forsyte In Chancery
"The Forsyte Saga, Volume II" by John Galsworthy is a series of novels and interludes published between 1906 and 1922. The saga chronicles an upper-middle-class English family acutely conscious of their "new money" status. At its center is Soames Forsyte, a solicitor whose obsession with property and possession fails to bring him happiness. Through marriages, divorces, and forbidden loves spanning generations, the Forsytes navigate desire, betrayal, and social ambition. When the next generation falls in love, old wounds resurface, threatening to repeat the past's tragic patterns.
Villa Rubein, and Other Stories
"Villa Rubein and Other Stories" by John Galsworthy is a collection of short stories likely written during the early 20th century. The stories explore themes of human emotion and the complexity of relationships, often set against a backdrop of social dynamics and individual aspirations. The opening story introduces the central character, Harz, a painter who is deeply engaged in his creative process and his interactions with a mixed household at Villa Rubein, highlighting the contrasts between artistic ambition and societal expectations. The opening of the story unfolds with Harz, an artist, as he navigates his daily life in Botzen, where he meets Edmund Dawney, a doctor; their conversations reveal contrasting views on passion and duty towards their respective professions. Harz is depicted as passionate and driven by a desire to create, while Dawney is practical and focused on social success. When Harz's isolation in his creative pursuits is interrupted by interactions with the family at Villa Rubein—including the innocent and curious young girl Greta- an unexpected warmth begins to bloom. The narrative transitions into deeper explorations of relationships and the philosophical underpinnings of art and life, setting the stage for both personal and artistic growth throughout the collection.
Five Tales
"Five Tales" by John Galsworthy is a collection of short stories written during the early 20th century. The book explores complex human emotions and moral dilemmas through interconnected narratives that delve into themes of love, murder, and the intricate ties of family loyalty. The beginning of "Five Tales" introduces the first story, "The First and Last," which focuses on Keith Darrant, a successful barrister who enjoys his quiet time at home after a strenuous day working with legal cases. His evening serenity is shattered by a visit from his troubled brother Laurence, who reveals that he has just killed a man in a fit of passion. The tension escalates as Keith, bound by family loyalty yet appalled by Laurence's admission, grapples with the implications of his brother's actions. This gripping opening sets the stage for a deep exploration of familial bonds, responsibility, and the haunting consequences of one's choices in the face of societal expectations.
The Patrician
"The Patrician" by John Galsworthy is a novel written during the early 20th century. The story delves into the lives of the Caradoc family, centering around Lord Valleys and his children as they navigate issues of status, tradition, and modernity within the aristocratic class. Through their interactions and discussions, Galsworthy explores themes of societal change, the burdens of heritage, and the contrast between personal desires and duty. The opening of the novel sets a reflective tone as it describes the grand dining hall of Monkland Court, the family estate, illuminated by the morning light. This room symbolizes the weight of history and the legacy of the Caradoc family, where traditions and personal histories are intertwined. As the day begins, we are introduced to various characters, including the spirited young girl Ann and the contemplative Lord Valleys, whose thoughts reflect a mixture of duty and personal feeling regarding the political and social climate. The stage is set for a complex exploration of family dynamics and societal expectations that will unfold as the narrative progresses.
Saint's Progress
"Saint's Progress" by John Galsworthy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story centers around Edward Pierson, a clergyman, who is grappling with personal loss, the responsibilities of fatherhood, and the complexities of love during a turbulent time shaped by war. The opening chapters introduce themes of nostalgia, personal struggle, and the nuances of emerging relationships, particularly focusing on the dynamics between Edward and his daughters. At the start of the novel, Edward Pierson returns from a ramble to the picturesque setting of his brother's home, reflecting on a mixture of beauty and melancholy that surrounds him. The narrative captures his reunion with family, particularly his daughter Noel, as she dances with a young officer. Through Edward's eyes, we see his concern over Noel's growing attachment to Cyril Morland, an officer heading to war. As the story progresses, we witness Edward's internal battle as a father trying to protect his daughter from the potentially reckless choice of marrying someone she has known for a very short time. The opening sets the stage for a heartfelt exploration of love, loss, and the impact of war on intimate relationships.
Complete Project Gutenberg John Galsworthy Works
"The Forsyte Saga" by John Galsworthy is a multi-part novel written during the late 19th century, particularly reflecting the changing values of the Victorian era. The saga intricately chronicles the lives of the Forsyte family, an upper-middle-class clan in England, focusing on themes of wealth, property, and the tensions surrounding love and family loyalty. The initial volume introduces key characters such as old Jolyon Forsyte, his granddaughter June, and the architect Philip Bosinney, whose engagement to June sets off various familial conflicts and societal commentary. The opening of "The Forsyte Saga" presents a family gathering at the home of old Jolyon to celebrate June’s engagement to Bosinney. It illustrates the complex dynamics within the Forsyte family, characterized by possessiveness, rivalry, and a veneer of civility that masks deeper resentments and anxieties about social status and reputation. The event serves as a microcosm of their lives, where underlying tensions are palpable, especially in the reactions of various family members towards the unconventional Bosinney and his relationship with June. Through vivid characterizations and group interactions, Galsworthy sets the stage for the broader narrative that will explore the impact of societal change on individual desires and family ties.
Strife: A Drama in Three Acts
"Strife: A Drama in Three Acts" by John Galsworthy is a play written in 1907 and first produced in 1909. At a tin plate factory on the England-Wales border, an unofficial strike drags on for months, causing desperate hardship among workers' families. As trade union representatives and company directors seek resolution, two uncompromising men face off: the elderly company chairman and the strike leader. Neither will yield, even as the human cost mounts around them. The confrontation forces everyone to question what price they're willing to pay for their principles.
Beyond
"Beyond" by John Galsworthy is a novel written in the early 20th century. The book revolves around the character of Charles Clare Winton, a retired major who grapples with deep emotional loss and the complexities of love as he reflects on his past and current relationships, particularly with his daughter, Gyp, who is stepping into her own life and social circles. The story paints a poignant picture of Winton's inner turmoil and how it connects to Gyp's burgeoning identity and desires. The opening of "Beyond" introduces us to Winton on a gloomy February day as he leaves a registry office where his daughter has just married a man he disapproves of. His thoughts reflect a blend of nostalgia and regret, as he remembers the past tragedies tied to the loss of his love—the mother of his daughter, who died giving birth. As he processes his feelings of alienation following Gyp's departure, he battles jealousy and abandonment, especially regarding her affections for a musician named Fiorsen. The narrative sets a tone of emotional depth, exploring themes of love, loss, and the complexities of familial relationships as Winton navigates his relationship with his daughter while grappling with his own heartache.
Fraternity
"Fraternity" by John Galsworthy is a novel written during the early 20th century, likely around the time of its publication between the world wars. This work delves into the complexities of human relationships and social disparities, encapsulating the inner lives and struggles of its characters as they navigate societal expectations and personal desires. Central to the story is Cecilia Dallison, a woman grappling with her own identity and circumstances amid the backdrop of her family and their connections to the poorer classes represented by characters like the seamstress Mrs. Hughs. At the start of the novel, a rich tapestry of life on a typical spring day in Kensington is painted, providing a glimpse into various social classes interacting, especially at the establishment of Messrs. Rose and Thorn. Cecilia, a graceful woman about to purchase a new dress, is depicted in her moment of indecision, torn between her personal desires and an awareness of the struggles faced by those less fortunate than herself, including Mrs. Hughs, whose husband is troubling her. As Cecilia navigates her relationships with her husband, daughter, and other family members, her concern for Mrs. Hughs develops, setting the stage for a broader examination of class differences and the social responsibilities that accompany privilege. The opening establishes key themes of empathy and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals within a stratified society.
The Silver Box: A Comedy in Three Acts
"The Silver Box: A Comedy in Three Acts" by John Galsworthy is a dramatic play likely written in the early 20th century, reflecting the social issues of its time. The play explores themes of class division, morality, and social responsibility through the intertwined lives of the wealthy Barthwick family and the struggling Jones family, highlighting the contrasts in their circumstances and interactions. The opening of the play introduces key characters, including Jack Barthwick, the wayward son of a Member of Parliament, who returns home inebriated, unknowingly setting off a chain of events that will impact both families. Jack's reckless behavior leads to accusations against Mrs. Jones, their charwoman, when a silver cigarette box and a lady's reticule go missing from the Barthwick household. The dialogue swiftly develops the characters' personalities and their domestic situations, illustrating the tensions between social classes and the repercussions of actions driven by desperation and excess. The stage is set for a comedic yet poignant exploration of ethics and the effects of societal expectations.
The Island Pharisees
"The Island Pharisees" by John Galsworthy is a novel written during the early 20th century. The book explores the conflicts between traditional societal expectations and individual desires through the journey of its protagonist, Shelton, as well as his interaction with various characters who embody different facets of British society. The opening of the novel introduces us to Shelton as he embarks on a train journey from Dover to London. During this trip, he encounters a diverse group of fellow passengers which serves to highlight the varying attitudes and moralities present within society. A pivotal moment occurs when Shelton aids a distressed young foreign girl who lacks the money for her train ticket, attracting attention and judgment from the other passengers. As Shelton navigates this encounter and reflects on the reactions of those around him, he begins to question the complacency and moral rigidity of societal norms, setting the stage for his internal struggle throughout the narrative. This initial scene serves to illustrate the broader themes of the book, including the nature of virtue, social expectations, and the pursuit of personal truth amidst a conformist society.
Loyalties
"Loyalties" by John Galsworthy is a play written during the early 20th century, characterized by its exploration of societal expectations and moral dilemmas. The central conflict revolves around a theft that occurs in the household of Charles Winsor, wherein a young man named Ferdinand De Levis claims a substantial sum of money has been stolen from him, leading to a tense investigation that exposes the underlying prejudices and complexities of relationships among the characters. At the start of the play, we are introduced to Charles Winsor and his wife Lady Adela, who discuss their guests before Ferdinand De Levis enters, distressed over his missing money. He insists that the notable Captain Ronald Dancy could have taken it during the course of the evening. The stage is set for escalating tensions as De Levis presses for police involvement, setting off a series of interrogations that unveil the characters’ loyalties and prejudices. Throughout the interactions, the dynamics of wealth, social status, and suspicion create a charged atmosphere, hinting at deeper conflicts that will unravel as the investigation unfolds.
The Dark Flower
"The Dark Flower" by John Galsworthy is a novel written in the late 19th century. The narrative unfolds in a rich, lyrical style, focusing on complex emotional themes such as love, desire, and societal constraints. The story centers on Mark Lennan, a young, sensitive student at Oxford, who becomes entangled in a challenging emotional dynamic with Anna Stormer, a married woman. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Mark as he wanders through an Oxford setting, reflecting on his studies and relationships. He carries a tortoise in his pocket, symbolizing his introspective nature, before arriving at his tutor's home where he meets Anna Stormer. The initial interaction reveals a profound undercurrent of attraction and complexity between Mark and Anna, as she grapples with her feelings of nostalgia and longing for the mountains. As their relationship develops, a tension emerges, highlighting the contrast between youthful passion and mature restraint, setting the stage for the novel's exploration of desire and the moral ramifications that accompany it.
Quotes and Images From the Works of John Galsworthy
"Quotes and Images From the Works of John Galsworthy" by John Galsworthy is a collection of quotes and excerpts drawn from the author's literary works, primarily written during the early 20th century. John Galsworthy, a prominent English novelist and playwright known for his keen observation of society, provides readers with insights into themes such as love, property, societal norms, and the human condition in this compilation. The book likely encapsulates Galsworthy's reflections on the complexities of life and interpersonal relationships. The content of this compilation showcases a diverse range of quotes that reflect Galsworthy's exploration of human emotions and social commentary through his characters. For instance, it touches on the failure of relationships, the burden of social expectations, and the irony of human nature. Galsworthy's words evoke feelings of empathy for characters entangled in societal constraints and personal struggles, such as the often unfulfilled yearning for love and understanding amidst the rigid structures of class and property ownership, particularly as seen in his more extensive works like "The Forsyte Saga." Overall, this collection serves as a poignant reminder of the timeless themes that permeate human experience and Galsworthy's distinctive voice in literature.
Complete Plays of John Galsworthy
"Complete Plays of John Galsworthy" by John Galsworthy is a collection of dramatic works written in the early 20th century. The volume encompasses a variety of plays, showcasing Galsworthy's keen observations on social issues and personal struggles within the context of contemporary English life. With characters that range from the wealthy Barthwick family to the struggling Jones household, the plays delve into themes of class conflict, morality, and the consequences of one's actions. The opening portion of the collection introduces the play "The Silver Box," featuring Jack Barthwick, a wealthy Liberal's son whose night of indulgence leads to a series of troubling events. After returning home in a drunken state with a lady's purse he doesn't remember taking, Jack's careless actions set off a moral dilemma for his family. Meanwhile, Mrs. Jones, a charwoman grappling with her husband's unemployment and alcoholism, becomes embroiled in the scandal when her husband claims involvement in the theft. This opening sets the stage for exploring the complex dynamics between social classes and the burden of responsibility, with characters trapped in their respective societal roles.
The Little Man: A Farcical Morality in Three Scenes
"The Little Man: A Farcical Morality in Three Scenes" by John Galsworthy is a short play that falls within the genre of drama, likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around social themes and moral dilemmas, examining human nature and the concept of duty towards others, particularly in the context of class and altruism. Through a comedic lens, Galsworthy addresses profound moral questions and critiques societal behaviors. The play takes place in three scenes, primarily involving a diverse group of characters at an Austrian railway station. At the center of the story is the titular Little Man, who finds himself in a rather absurd situation after accidentally taking a baby from its mother. Throughout the interactions with the other travelers—an American, an English couple, a German, and a Dutch boy—the Little Man grapples with themes of responsibility, selflessness, and the social implications of class distinctions. The characters engage in humorous yet thought-provoking discussions that highlight their attitudes towards duty and brotherhood, culminating in a moment of crisis when the Little Man must defend his actions to an official and a policeman. Ultimately, the play wraps up with a comedic yet uplifting resolution that emphasizes kindness and the intrinsic value of humanity.
The Fugitive: A Play in Four Acts
"The Fugitive: A Play in Four Acts" by John Galsworthy is a dramatic work written during the early 20th century. The play delves into the complexities of marriage, societal expectations, and personal freedom, focusing on the strained relationship between the main character, Clare Dedmond, and her husband, George Dedmond. As Clare grapples with her unfulfilled desires and the confines of her domestic life, the play explores themes of self-identity and the quest for liberation. The opening of the play introduces us to the personal tensions within the Dedmond household. George arrives home to find that Clare has unexpectedly left for a walk, setting off a discussion with his parents about their troubled marriage. Their interactions reveal an undercurrent of discontent, with George expressing frustration over Clare’s behavior and his family prompting him to be cautious about her friendship with a literary man named Malise. As the plot unfolds, Clare's internal struggles become increasingly clear; she seeks to break free from the conventional bounds of her life, feeling like a "prisoner" in her own home. This opening establishes the emotional stakes and conflicts that will drive the narrative forward, documenting the pressures of societal norms on personal happiness and the yearning for genuine connection.
The First and the Last: A Drama in Three Scenes
"The First and the Last: A Drama in Three Scenes" by John Galsworthy is a play that falls within the genre of drama, written in the early 20th century. This poignant piece explores themes of morality, familial obligation, and the weight of past decisions through the lives of its central characters. Set against the backdrop of a tragic incident involving the loss of life and its consequences, the narrative encapsulates the struggles of the human condition in a rapidly changing society. The play primarily follows two brothers, Keith and Larry Darrant, with Larry embroiled in a murder case after an altercation with a man who had previously abused a young Polish woman named Wanda. As the story unfolds, Keith, a King's Counsel, grapples with the implications of his brother's actions, seeking to protect their family name while trying to find a way out for Larry. Wanda, deeply in love with Larry, adds to the emotional tension as she yearns for a future with him despite the looming threats posed by his past. The narrative shifts through emotions of despair, love, sacrifice, and the ultimate consequences of choices made in heated moments, culminating in a tragic finale that forces the characters to confront their fates.