Author
Owen Wister
1860-1938
Owen Wister (1860-1938) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Owen Wister
The Virginian: A Horseman of the Plains
"The Virginian: A Horseman of the Plains" by Owen Wister is a novel published in 1902. Set in 1880s Wyoming Territory, it follows a mysterious ranch hand known only as the Virginian as he navigates life on a cattle ranch. He faces a dangerous enemy named Trampas, romances an Eastern schoolteacher unfamiliar with Western ways, and confronts difficult choices including the hanging of a close friend. This landmark work established the Western genre and introduced the iconic cowboy showdown to American literature.
Lady Baltimore
"Lady Baltimore" by Owen Wister is a novel written during the late 19th century. The story is set in the charming and nostalgic town of Kings Port, South Carolina, and follows the experiences of Augustus, a young man intrigued by his heritage and the genteel society of the South. The narrative unfolds around themes of love, social expectations, and personal identity, featuring characters like John Mayrant and the beautiful yet complex Hortense Rieppe, who become central to Augustus's experiences in Kings Port. The opening of "Lady Baltimore" introduces the protagonist, Augustus, who reflects on his origins and familial connections, particularly with his eccentric Aunt Carola, who inspires him to explore his ancestry. As Augustus arrives in Kings Port, he admires the town's beauty and melancholy charm. The narrative begins to highlight his interactions with the local society, including the preparations for John Mayrant's upcoming wedding to Hortense Rieppe. The tone is characterized by a blend of humor, social critique, and a deep appreciation for the historical backdrop, setting the stage for a story filled with romance and the nuances of Southern life.
The Jimmyjohn Boss, and Other Stories
"The Jimmyjohn Boss and Other Stories" by Owen Wister is a collection of narratives written during the late 19th century that captures the essence of life in the American West. The stories provide vivid depictions of characters navigating the challenges and moral complexities of frontier life, with a focus on themes such as loyalty, ambition, and the rugged individualism often associated with the region. The main character introduced is Dean Drake, a young man being appointed as a superintendent at a ranch, who must learn to manage the unruly cowboys under his command. The opening of the book presents a lively interaction between Dean Drake and his employer, Max Vogel, as they prepare for Drake's new role at the Malheur Agency ranch. Vogel is depicted as a robust and jovial cattleman with a keen eye for talent, who entrusts the young Drake with significant responsibilities despite his youth and inexperience. Their humorous banter reveals the dynamics of their relationship while foreshadowing the challenges Drake will face in managing his team of cowboys, especially given the ban on whiskey and the expectations of authority he must uphold. The narrative sets the tone for a story about growing up and finding one's place in a wild and unpredictable world.
Lin McLean
"Lin McLean" by Owen Wister is a novel set in the late 19th century that immerses readers in the American West, exploring the life of cow-punchers and their experiences. The narrative centers around the character Lin McLean, a young cowboy who dreams of adventure and variety beyond the confines of his ranching life. As he navigates his aspirations, the story delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the pursuit of love and personal fulfillment against the rugged backdrop of the Western frontier. The opening of "Lin McLean" introduces us to the protagonist, a 22-year-old cow-puncher, awakening in a Wyoming cow camp during summer. Eager for a change and motivated by a desire for adventure, Lin decides to leave the camp, spurred by a sense of restlessness despite the camaraderie of the ranch work. He embarks on a journey towards Fort Washakie to collect his wages, meeting various characters along the way, including a group of cowboys and a foreman who reflect the humor and the hardships of frontier life. This opening sets the stage for Lin's exploration of romantic relationships and the broader world beyond the ranch as he grapples with his identity and aspirations.
Philosophy 4: A Story of Harvard University
"Philosophy 4: A Story of Harvard University" by Owen Wister is a fictional narrative set in the late 19th century, likely during the early 1880s. This work is a humorous exploration of the lives of college students, particularly focusing on the philosophy course at Harvard University and the challenges faced by the young men as they prepare for their final examinations. The book touches on themes of intellect versus absurdity, highlighting the intersection of youthful exuberance and the often dry and convoluted world of philosophical thought. The story primarily revolves around two sophomores, Bertie and Billy, who are distinctly unprepared for their Philosophy 4 final. In a bid to cram for their exams, they hire a fellow sophomore, Oscar, to tutor them. As the narrative unfolds, Bertie and Billy engage in a comical and somewhat chaotic learning process, often challenging Oscar's scholarly interpretations of various philosophers, such as Plato and Berkeley. Their interactions are filled with witty banter that reflects the tension between their carefree attitudes and Oscar's serious demeanor. As they explore the complexities of philosophical concepts through humor and absurdity, the boys ultimately find themselves enjoying the subject matter much more than they anticipated. In a twist of fate, they perform surprisingly well on their exam despite their initial lack of preparation, leaving Oscar bewildered by their success while he himself scores less than them, thereby emphasizing the unpredictability of knowledge and understanding.
Red Men and White
"Red Men and White" by Owen Wister is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The narrative explores the complexities of life on the Western frontier, particularly focusing on the interactions between white settlers and Native American tribes. The stories are connected thematically and feature overlapping characters, suggesting a rich and intertwined tapestry of life during a pivotal time in American history. The opening of the collection sets the stage for these narratives by highlighting the dynamic circumstances of the Crow Indians and their evolving relationship with white settlers and soldiers. It introduces characters like young Cheschapah, a Crow Indian who struggles between his ambition for leadership and duty to his people, and Lieutenant Stirling whose observations about the Indians reveal deeper nuances. As tensions arise with the Sioux tribe visiting the Crows and the calculations of superstitions that could ignite conflict, a stark portrait of life on the frontier is painted—a world of fragile peace overshadowed by the threat of violence, cultural misunderstanding, and the quest for identity and recognition. This sets the tone for a thoughtful exploration of the intersections of cultures, conflict, and human ambition that defines the Wild West.
A Straight Deal; Or, The Ancient Grudge
"A Straight Deal; Or, The Ancient Grudge" by Owen Wister is a non-fiction work likely written in the early 20th century. The book critically examines the historical grievances between the United States and England, particularly during and after World War I, while advocating for a more reconciliatory perspective on Anglo-American relations. Wister aims to address the lingering animosities and encourages readers to reassess their opinions on England, highlighting that such grudges can harm future cooperation and understanding. The opening portion of the text sets the stage for a discussion on how public sentiment and historical narratives shape perceptions of national identity and international alliances. Wister introduces the concept of a "letter box," likening the barrage of opinions on current events to falling leaves, suggesting that many are quick to voice opinions influenced by emotional responses rather than historical accuracy. He emphasizes the importance of personal experience and understanding in forming opinions about nations and their histories, particularly addressing anti-English sentiment that has roots in events like the American Revolution and the War of 1812. Through letters from soldiers and civilians alike, Wister begins to unpack these sentiments, indicating that a lack of accurate historical education may perpetuate these grudges, thus underlining the need for a more nuanced appreciation of England's contributions during critical moments in history.
Padre Ignacio; Or, The Song of Temptation
"Padre Ignacio; Or, The Song of Temptation" by Owen Wister is a novel written in the late 19th century, specifically during a time when Western America was still being vividly captured in literature. The book grapples with themes of temptation, sacrifice, and the internal conflict between worldly desires and spiritual commitments. It follows the life of Padre Ignacio, a priest stationed at a California mission, who faces the lure of his past life when a young, charming musician named Gaston Villere visits the mission. The narrative revolves around Padre Ignacio's reflections on his life, his yearning for the cultural richness of his youth in Europe, and his duties to his parishioners. The arrival of Gaston stirs deep emotions within Ignacio, awakening his longing for the world he left behind. Their conversations touch on music, art, and the notion of contentment with simple living contrasted against the vibrant lure of worldly pleasures. Ultimately, the novel delves into themes of renunciation, as Ignacio grapples with the realization that pursuing fleeting joys can lead to spiritual turmoil. As tragedy strikes with Gaston's untimely death, Ignacio finds resolution through his connection to his teaching and the community he cherishes, illustrating the profound impact of personal sacrifice and the enduring search for peace.
Mother
"Mother" by Owen Wister is a short story written in the early 1900s and republished in 1907. A young New York couple eager to marry must wait until they can afford it. When the groom inherits money, an unscrupulous advisor leads him into risky investments that threaten their future. His fiancée offers wiser counsel, but will her advice save their fortune in time? The story illuminates the financial entanglements of America's upper classes before the 1929 crash.
A journey in search of Christmas
"A Journey in Search of Christmas" by Owen Wister is a novella written in the early 20th century. This work blends elements of fiction with a distinctive holiday theme, focusing on the essence of Christmas through the experiences of its central character, Lin McLean. The narrative explores the spirit of giving, connection, and personal transformation during a festive season while capturing the lively atmosphere typical of the American West during that era. The story follows Lin McLean, a rugged cow-puncher, as he embarks on an adventure in search of the Christmas spirit. Initially detached from the holiday's significance, Lin's journey unfolds as he encounters various characters, including his friend Governor Barker, and engages with children and townsfolk who embody the essence of Christmas cheer. Through a series of events that lead him to a young boy named Billy Lusk, Lin grapples with feelings of responsibility, connection, and the true meaning of giving. As the narrative progresses, McLean's character evolves from self-centeredness to a deeper understanding of love and kindness, ultimately leading to a poignant conclusion that highlights the transformative power of the Christmas season.
Members of the Family
"Members of the Family" by Owen Wister is a novel written in the early 20th century. This work explores themes of Western life and identity through the experiences of its characters, particularly focusing on the humorous and insightful interactions among them in a frontier setting, bringing to life the essence of Western American culture. The opening features Scipio Le Moyne, a character who undergoes a comical and multifaceted journey, dealing with his own aspirations and mishaps in a world transitioning from the rugged individualism of the cowboy era. At the start of the novel, we meet Scipio Le Moyne, who is recovering from injuries sustained in a rodeo accident and is witfully musing over the complexities of communication and social interaction. His humorous conversations with a visiting friend known as the Virginian reveal his knack for storytelling and sharp observations about others, especially concerning a comical figure named Horacles. As Scipio recuperates, he wrestles with a mix of pride and insecurity about his place in this new and evolving Western society, all while building a tapestry of relationships that shape his journey. The engaging dynamics among characters provide a vivid window into life on the frontier, blending humor with underlying social commentary.
The Dragon of Wantley: His Tale
"The Dragon of Wantley: His Tale" by Owen Wister is a humorous work of fiction written in the late 19th century. The story is set in a medieval manor and revolves around Sir Godfrey Disseisin, a choleric baron, and his daughter, Miss Elaine, as they navigate the existence of a fearsome dragon that terrorizes their land. The narrative blends elements of farce and adventure, highlighting themes of courage, love, and the absurdity of hereditary curses. At the start of the tale, we are introduced to the domestic life at Wantley Manor, wherein Sir Godfrey is preoccupied with his wine cellar, which has been raided by the dragon that plagues the local tenants. Little Whelpdale, a young servant, discovers that the dragon is not only stealing livestock but also indulging in the baron's precious wines. As Sir Godfrey prepares to confront this menace, tensions rise with the legend surrounding the dragon's curse, which stipulates that a female descendant must face the creature alone to lift the affliction. The opening chapter sets the stage for Elaine's bold determination to meet this challenge directly, hinting at adventure as she seeks to defy her father's wishes and confront the dragon.
The Pentecost of Calamity
"The Pentecost of Calamity" by Owen Wister is a reflective work that weaves together narrative and commentary on the state of Europe during World War I, written in the early 20th century. This book can be categorized as a historical account and criticism, focusing on the moral and societal implications of war and the historical context surrounding it. Wister explores themes such as nationalism, cultural identity, and the human condition amid calamity, providing insights into the complexities arising from the war's devastation. In the narrative, Wister recalls his experiences in pre-war Germany and contrasts them with the subsequent outbreak of conflict, prompting deep reflections on national character and morality. Through personal anecdotes and historical observations, he illustrates the serene beauty and order of Germany before the war and juxtaposes it with the tragic consequences of its militaristic ambitions. The author grapples with the dissonance between the German people's former peace and contentment and their complicity in war atrocities, ultimately advocating for a deeper understanding of humanity transcending national boundaries. The book serves as a poignant reminder of the duality of human nature, caught between the impulses of civilization and chaos.
How Doth the Simple Spelling Bee
"How Doth the Simple Spelling Bee" by Owen Wister is a satirical novella written in the early 20th century. This humorous work explores the absurdity of English spelling and the proposed reforms surrounding it, highlighting the chaotic nature of language change. Wister's story takes place during a time when there were widespread discussions about simplifying and modernizing English spelling. The narrative follows Thomas Greenberry, an aloof, scholarly character who becomes unwittingly embroiled in a campaign led by the eccentric Masticator B. Fellows, the president of Chickle University. Greenberry finds himself attending a convention that aims to reform English spelling and encounters a cast of quirky characters, including other scholars like Professor Willows and Miss Appleby. As Greenberry navigates the chaos of the meetings—marked by ludicrous suggestions, conflicts of opinion, and humorous misunderstandings—he realizes that the serious issue of spelling reform is overshadowed by personal flirtations and the bizarre antics of his fellow scholars. Ultimately, the novella serves as a comic critique of both language and its reformers, revealing the complexities and follies inherent in the quest for simplification.