Subject
Good and evil -- Fiction Books
Best books
Alain René Le Sage
Asmodeus; or, The Devil on Two Sticks
"Asmodeus; or, The Devil on Two Sticks" by Alain René Le Sage is a novel first published in 1707. When a young Spanish aristocrat frees the demon Asmodeus from imprisonment in a bottle, the grateful devil repays him with supernatural assistance. Together they embark on pranks and adventures through Madrid, with Asmodeus granting his rescuer the power of flight and the ability to see through rooftops into people's private lives. The novel features thinly-veiled portraits of Parisian celebrities that caused immediate scandal and recognition.
Leonid Andreyev
Satan's Diary
"Satan's Diary" by Leonid Andreyev is a satirical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative follows Satan, who has taken on the human guise of a wealthy American billionaire named Henry Wondergood, as he embarks on a journey through Europe in search of amusement and adventure. Through this unique lens, the book explores themes of disillusionment, the hypocrisies of humanity, and the often absurd nature of human morals and interactions. At the start of the narrative, Satan reflects on his newfound existence and the loneliness it brings him. Confined to expressing his complex thoughts through the limitations of human language, he grapples with the intricacies of life on Earth alongside his servant, Irwin Toppi. As he contemplates his motives for coming to Earth, Satan expresses a desire to play, showcasing both his amusement and disdain for humanity's follies. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the interactions between good and evil, as well as the paradoxes of existence, particularly as Satan encounters various characters and situations that challenge his understanding of human nature.
Arsène Houssaye
Les grandes dames
"Les grandes dames" by Arsène Houssaye is a novel likely written in the late 19th century, a reflection of the complexities of Parisian society during the Second Empire. The book explores themes of love, desire, and female archetypes, intertwined with historical and social commentary, particularly focusing on the reputation and influence of women in that era. The central character, Jean-Octave de Parisis, known as Don Juan de Parisis, navigates a world of romance and heartache, reflecting on the nature of his relationships with women and the societal expectations that surround them. At the start of the novel, the narrative introduces Octave de Parisis, an attractive and charismatic figure known for his charm and reputation among women. As he observes a beautiful young girl in the Bois de Boulogne, he is momentarily entranced by her presence, igniting his contemplation about love and the complexities that accompany it. The text sets the tone for Octave's internal struggle with emotional vulnerability and societal norms, emphasizing his fear of romantic entanglement. As he mingles within the upper echelons of Parisian society, the opening chapters also delve into the legends surrounding the Parisis family, hinting at a curse that haunts their lineage, thereby foreshadowing the tragic outcomes that may accompany love in their lives.
Robert E. (Robert Ervin) Howard
Skulls in the stars
"Skulls in the Stars" by Robert E. Howard is a novella that falls within the realm of horror and dark fantasy, likely written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the mysterious and sinister happenings in an eerie setting, involving a haunted moor and a vengeful spirit. It captures the themes of bravery against dark forces, as the protagonist confronts supernatural evils. The narrative follows Solomon Kane, a Puritan hero, as he embarks on a journey to Torkertown. Despite warnings from the villagers to avoid the treacherous moor road, Kane is drawn to face the terror that has claimed the lives of many. Upon his arrival, he encounters the remnants of a recent victim and learns that a demonic entity haunts the moors, killing indiscriminately. His investigation leads him to old Ezra, a miser linked to a ghostly avenger—Gideon, his insane cousin, whom he murdered. In the climax, Kane ensures the soul of Gideon is appeased by allowing his spirit to exact revenge on Ezra, intertwining fate, guilt, and the supernatural in a gripping tale of horror.
Joseph Hocking
The Everlasting Arms
"The Everlasting Arms" by Joseph Hocking is a novel set presumably during the early 20th century. The story revolves around Dick Faversham, a young man embarking on a journey that intertwines themes of spirituality, personal transformation, and the complexities of inheriting a vast fortune. The narrative opens with discussions among various characters about supernatural phenomena, casting a spotlight on Faversham's skepticism yet hinting at deeper spiritual elements that will soon impact his life. The opening of the novel introduces Dick Faversham aboard a steamship bound for Australia, where a conversation among various men explores the debated existence of spiritual beings, specifically regarding the so-called "Angels at Mons." As the discussion unfolds, Faversham sees a mysterious woman, provoking his intrigue and confusion, only for him to receive a telegram informing him of his uncle’s death and his imminent return to England for the inheritance of a significant estate. This initial segment sets the stage for a dramatic turn in his life filled with timely encounters and spiritual dilemmas, leading Faversham to question the very fabric of reality and destiny itself, while hinting at potential conflicts with a character named Count Romanoff, who introduces a sense of foreboding as the plot progresses.
Alain René Le Sage
Le diable boiteux, tome II
"Le diable boiteux, tome II" by Alain René Le Sage is a novel first published in 1707. When a young Spanish aristocrat frees the demon Asmodeus from a bottle, the grateful devil grants him extraordinary powers—including the ability to fly and see through rooftops into Madrid's homes. Together, they embark on mischievous adventures that expose the secret lives of society's elite. The novel scandalized readers by depicting thinly-veiled portraits of Parisian celebrities, sparking instant recognition and controversy that made it wildly popular in its time.
Alain René Le Sage
Le diable boiteux, tome I
"Le diable boiteux, tome I" by Alain René Le Sage is a novel published in 1707. A student escapes a romantic trap and finds refuge in a magician's attic, where he frees a demon named Asmodée from captivity. The grateful demon repays him by taking him across Madrid's rooftops on an October night, revealing the hidden secrets and scandals unfolding inside every household below. Through rapid portraits and adventures, the work offers a satirical glimpse into human nature, hypocrisy, and the private vices concealed behind closed doors.
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