The Man Who Wins

by Robert Herrick

"The Man Who Wins" by Robert Herrick is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the Ellwell family and their complex relationships, tracing their decline from respectable New England lineage to a life plagued by scandal and addiction. The reader is introduced to various family members, particularly John Ellwell, whose reckless choices lead to the family's downfall, contrasted with his sister Leonora, who navigates the challenges posed by their diminished status in society. At the start of the novel, the reader gets a vivid description of the Ellwell family history and their estate known as the Four Corners in Middleton. The narrative explores the generational shifts within the family, particularly focusing on John Ellwell's morally questionable lifestyle and his father's attempts to maintain the family’s reputation. Through scenes of camaraderie among college students and descriptions of familial dynamics, the opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of themes such as social status, moral decay, and the consequences of familial legacy. The introduction of young characters like Roper Thornton suggests a potential intertwining of lives that may challenge the family’s troubled legacy.