Sheppard Lee, Written by Himself. Vol. 1 (of 2)

by Robert Montgomery Bird

"Sheppard Lee, Written by Himself. Vol. 1 (of 2)" by Robert Montgomery Bird is a novel written in the early 19th century. The story follows the life of Sheppard Lee, a character whose journey reflects themes of fortune, misfortune, and the cyclical nature of wealth. It explores Lee’s comical trials and tribulations as he navigates the challenges of managing his estate, relationships, and social standing. The opening portion of the book introduces readers to Sheppard Lee's life story, beginning with his reflections on whether to share his adventures. He recounts his humble beginnings as a farmer's son who inherits a decent fortune but soon descends into idle laziness and financial ruin. Lee's character is developed through his whimsical attitude, lack of ambition, and interactions with quirky characters, including his overseer and a slave named Jim Jumble. As the narrative unfolds, we see hints of Lee’s desire to reclaim his lost fortune through various schemes, including gambling and political aspirations, setting the stage for a tale filled with both humor and caution about the folly of human nature.