Subject
Jealousy -- Fiction Books
Best books
Leo Tolstoy
The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories
"The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories" by Leo Tolstoy is a collection of narratives written during the late 19th century. The titular story, "The Kreutzer Sonata," presents a dialogue that dives deep into themes of love, marriage, and morality, primarily through the experiences and musings of the character Posdnicheff, who reveals his tumultuous relationship with his wife. This collection not only explores individual tales but also reflects Tolstoy's profound philosophical and social critiques of the institution of marriage and the complexities of human relationships. At the start of "The Kreutzer Sonata," the protagonist is introduced during a train journey, where various passengers engage in an intense conversation about love and marriage. The atmosphere is charged with differing opinions, particularly between a loquacious lawyer and a cynical merchant, who assert traditional views on gender roles within marriage. The somber undertone of Posdnicheff’s initial silence hints at his troubled past and foreshadows a harrowing tale of jealousy, betrayal, and existential despair. As conversations unfold, they lead to disturbing revelations about marital discontent, which become the basis for Posdnicheff’s own tragic narrative about love and its disillusionment. This opening effectively sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Tolstoy's stark observations on human emotions and societal expectations.
Guy de Maupassant
Strong as Death
"Strong as Death" by Guy de Maupassant is a novel likely written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the character Olivier Bertin, a celebrated painter grappling with artistic insecurity and the complexities of his relationships, particularly with a beautiful countess, Madame de Guilleroy. The book delves into themes of love, desire, and the emotional struggles of artistic life within the context of Parisian society. The opening of the novel introduces us to Bertin, who is in his studio contemplating his creative process amidst an atmosphere heavy with the scent of paint and tobacco. While he attempts to find inspiration for a new work, the arrival of Madame de Guilleroy sparks a familiar interaction, highlighting their longstanding relationship filled with flirtation and underlying tension. Their conversation oscillates between artistic admiration and personal connections, revealing the depth of their bond and the complexities of societal expectations. As Bertin and the countess navigate their emotions and ambitions, hints of love and desire surface, setting the stage for a narrative rich in psychological exploration and social commentary.
Stefan Zweig
Brennendes Geheimnis: Erzählung
"Brennendes Geheimnis: Erzählung" by Stefan Zweig is a novella published in 1911. On a holiday resort, a baron befriends a twelve-year-old boy named Edgar to get close to his attractive married mother. As the adults draw away from him, the confused child becomes consumed with jealousy and hatred, desperate to understand their secret. Through Edgar's struggle, Zweig explores the painful transition from childhood innocence to adult awareness, capturing the psychological tensions of pre-war Viennese society.
Stefan Zweig
The Burning Secret
"The Burning Secret" by Stefan Zweig is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young baron who, while vacationing in a resort, becomes infatuated with a beautiful woman and her young son, Edgar. The narrative explores themes of desire, childhood innocence, and the complexities of adult relationships, particularly through the contrasting perspectives of the baron and the child. The opening of "The Burning Secret" introduces the baron as he arrives at a mountainous hotel, where he feels discontented by the lack of company or potential romantic interests. His mood changes when he notices a lady and her son, Edgar, who captures his attention. The narrative details the baron's immediate attraction to the woman and his intention to engage with her, while also highlighting Edgar's shy yet eager disposition. As the baron slowly ingratiates himself with the boy, it becomes apparent that the boy's emotional state is deeply intertwined with the actions of the adults around him. The tension begins as Edgar senses a shift in his mother’s attention and potentially the baron's motives, setting the stage for a complex interplay of emotions and hidden secrets.
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
Sant' Ilario
"Sant' Ilario" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book explores the lives of its main characters against the backdrop of the political tensions of the time, delving into themes of love, class distinctions, and personal growth. Central to the narrative is Anastase Gouache, a soldier and painter whose experiences and relationships shape the trajectory of the story. At the start of the novel, we meet Anastase Gouache, a young Zouave whose military service has transformed him both physically and mentally. Reflecting on his past, including his relationships with political conspirators and society members, he grapples with the divide between his youthful ideals and the reality of mature responsibilities. The narrative is set in Rome, where a chance encounter leads to his being injured by a carriage belonging to the Montevarchi family, introducing him to the beautiful yet sheltered Donna Faustina. Their initial interaction hints at potential romantic tension, while discussions of societal expectations and familial duties unfold, setting the stage for further exploration of their intertwined fates.
Leslie Waltham
The 13th juror
"The 13th Juror" by Leslie Waltham is a science fiction novel written during the mid-20th century. Set in the 23rd century, the book explores a futuristic world where traditional concepts of crime and justice have transformed drastically. In this society, crime has practically ceased to exist, and emotions that could lead to crime are scrutinized through advanced technology, turning the court system into a venue for examining emotional responses rather than actions. The story revolves around John Hastings, who is put on trial for the emotion of hate he allegedly felt towards his wife, Mary. The narrative unfolds through a unique judicial process where jurors watch and analyze the defendant's thoughts as they relate to significant events in his life, such as his relationship with Mary and his suspicions of her infidelity. As Hastings presents his case, we see glimpses into their troubled marriage, his emotions, and the societal norms that dictate the trial. The climax sees a revelation that brings a deeper understanding of love and hate, leaving the reader to ponder the complexities of human relationships and emotions in an emotionally sterile society. Ultimately, the novel challenges readers to reflect on the thin boundaries between love and hate, and the essence of truth within personal experiences.
F. Marion (Francis Marion) Crawford
Pietro Ghisleri
"Pietro Ghisleri" by F. Marion Crawford is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around complex relationships between two step-sisters, Laura Carlyon and Adele Braccio, in the context of a Roman high-society backdrop, exploring themes of love, jealousy, and social dynamics. The narrative delves into the intricacies of their family life, including the interests of their parents and the young men in their circle, particularly focusing on the attention that each step-sister garners in society. The opening of the novel introduces the family dynamics between the step-sisters and their parents, particularly the Honourable Mrs. Carlyon and Prince Gerano. Laura, who is described as beautiful yet without a dowry, and Adele, an heiress who is lively and somewhat vain, grow up with contrasting personalities and ambitions. As their stories unfold, romantic tensions arise, especially regarding Don Francesco Savelli, who is intended for Adele but finds himself attracted to Laura instead. This leads to jealousy and rivalry, setting the stage for deeper conflicts and emotional developments further along in the story. In this initial chapter, readers sense the societal pressures and personal struggles that will define the relationships at play.
S. M. Tenneshaw
Let Space Be Your Coffin
"Let Space Be Your Coffin" by S. M. Tenneshaw is a science fiction story written in the mid-20th century. The narrative revolves around themes of betrayal and revenge set against a futuristic backdrop where space travel is possible. The story delves into the psychological turmoil of the protagonist, Bert Tanner, as he grapples with his emotions stemming from jealousy and ambition, all while navigating his complicated relationship with his business partner, Miles Berendt, and the woman they both love, Carol Grant. The plot unfolds in a competitive setting within a space freight company, where Bert Tanner’s resentment toward Miles Berendt escalates as he learns of Miles' engagement to Carol, whom he has secretly loved. Consumed by jealousy, Bert hatches a plan to eliminate Miles and reclaim his aspirations, even going so far as to tamper with the ship's autopilot that Miles and Carol will be using for their wedding trip. As tensions rise, Bert's nefarious plans ultimately backfire, leading to a devastating explosion that resolves the conflicts in a tragic yet poetic twist. The story explores deep themes of ambition, love, and the consequences of revenge, framed in an engaging science fiction narrative.
Eça de Queirós
Our Lady of the Pillar
"Our Lady of the Pillar" by Eça de Queirós is a historical novel written in the late 19th century. The story unfolds in Segovia during the late 15th century, exploring themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal against the backdrop of Spanish society. The narrative focuses on the tumultuous relationship between Don Ruy de Cardenas, a young knight, and Donna Leonor, the beautiful wife of the wealthy and jealous Lord of Lara. The plot begins with Don Ruy's infatuation with Donna Leonor, who is trapped in a stifling marriage. The jealousy of her husband provokes a complex and dangerous love triangle, ultimately leading to a series of dramatic encounters and deceitful plots. When Don Alonso, the Lord of Lara, discovers Ruy's feelings, he pretends to orchestrate a secret meeting between them while plotting Ruy's demise. Unbeknownst to Ruy, a mysterious hanged man appears as a ghostly protector who aids him in navigating the dangers posed by the Lord of Lara. This supernatural twist heightens the story's tension, culminating in a confrontation that reveals the deadly consequences of love and betrayal. Ultimately, the tale weaves together devotion, divine intervention, and the complexities of human relationships, leading to a conclusion that intertwines themes of redemption and tragedy.
Gustave Dubarry
Othello
"OTHELLO" by Gustave Dubarry and William Shakespeare is a dramatic play written in the late 16th century. The narrative centers on Othello, a Moorish general in Venice, and explores themes of love, jealousy, betrayal, and the tragic consequences of manipulation. The opening introduces key characters such as Othello, Desdemona, Rodrigo, and Iago, setting the stage for a tale filled with tension and intrigue. At the start of the play, the scene is set in Venice during a prosperous time for the Republic. Two gentlemen, Rodrigo and Iago, engage in a heated conversation revealing that Desdemona, Rodrigo's desired love, has eloped with Othello. Iago, who harbors hatred for Othello due to his promotion of Cassio over him, plots to turn Rodrigo's affections into a means of revenge against Othello. As the narrative unfolds, themes of manipulation and betrayal emerge through Iago's cunning schemes, setting the foundation for the tragic events that are to come.
Guy de Maupassant
Luja kuin kuolema
"Luja kuin kuolema" by Guy de Maupassant is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Olivier Bertin, a wealthy and famous painter grappling with his artistic inspiration, personal relationships, and the passage of time, as he navigates the complexities of his life intertwined with the world of Parisian high society. The opening portion introduces us to Bertin's artistic struggle within his studio, filled with the remnants of his past works and a pervasive sense of ennui as he searches for a new theme to paint. His internal conflict is mirrored by his encounter with Countess de Guilleroy, a striking and captivating woman who enters his life unexpectedly, igniting an attraction between them. Their interaction reveals the dynamics of their relationship, as both characters grapple with their desires and the societal constraints that channel their feelings. This sets the stage for an exploration of love, morality, and artistic ambition against the backdrop of 19th-century French life.
Guy de Maupassant
Fort comme la mort
"Fort comme la mort" by Guy de Maupassant is a novel published in 1889. This psychological drama explores love and aging through the story of Olivier Bertin, a celebrated Parisian painter, and his longtime affair with Anne de Guilleroy. When Anne's daughter Annette returns as a beautiful eighteen-year-old bearing a striking resemblance to her mother's younger self, Bertin becomes unsettlingly captivated. The painter finds himself trapped between past passion and present decline, confronting the cruel passage of time and his own fading youth.
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