Author
Albert Smith
1816-1860
Albert Smith (1816-1860) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaSubjects
Books by Albert Smith
The Marchioness of Brinvilliers, the poisoner of the seventeenth century : $b A romance of old Paris
"The Marchioness of Brinvilliers, the Poisoner of the Seventeenth Century" by Albert Smith is a historical romance written in the late 19th century. Set in Paris during 1665, the narrative delves into the life of the notorious marchioness who infamously used poison in her schemes, intertwining themes of love, betrayal, and intrigue. The story features various characters, including the titular marchioness, Gaudin de Sainte-Croix, and other figures who navigate a world of both social and moral complexities. At the start of the narrative, a lively scene unfolds at the Carrefour du Châtelet in Paris, where a crowd gathers to watch a mountebank perform. Among the crowd are two military officers, Gaudin de Sainte-Croix and his friend, who display disinterest in a young working-class girl, Louise Gauthier, who is introduced during this chaotic spectacle. As the evening progresses, the crowd's attention shifts toward the mysterious physician, Antonio Exili, who possesses unsettling knowledge and chemistry skills that hint at darker undertones. Tension rises as Exili is ultimately arrested, revealing a complex web of relationships and schemes involving poison, love, and ambition, setting the stage for a dramatic historical tale.
The Natural History of the Gent
"The Natural History of the Gent" by Albert Smith is a satirical social commentary written in the mid-19th century. This humorous exploration examines the characteristics and behaviors of a particular class of individuals in society referred to as "Gents," who are depicted as pretentious and lacking in genuine gentlemanly qualities. The book reflects on the social customs, attire, and mannerisms that define this group, providing a critical view of their attempts to appear stylish and sophisticated in Victorian London. In this work, Smith offers a detailed dissection of the Gent’s habits, showcasing their absurdities through vivid anecdotes and illustrations. The narrative takes the reader through various social settings, including theaters, taverns, and the seaside, where the Gents are shown as exaggerated caricatures of superficiality. Through observations of their fashion choices—large check trousers, flashy cravats, and ostentatious sticks—and their behaviors—loud laughter inappropriately timed and self-importance in mundane situations—Smith highlights the disconnect between the Gents' aspirations and their true social standing. Ultimately, the book serves both as a humorous critique of a specific social stratum and a broader commentary on the pretensions that can be found in society at large.