by Plato
In “Plato’s Republic,” also known as “The Republic,” the ancient Greek philosopher Plato presents a philosophical dialogue. As one of his best-known works, it stands as a classic of Western philosophy. Through a discussion between Socrates and several other characters, Plato explores the nature of justice and the ideal state.
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by H. A. Guerber
“Myths of the Norsemen” by H. A. Guerber brings to life the rich tapestry of Norse mythology. Guerber vividly recounts the epic sagas and heroic tales of gods, giants, and legendary creatures. Through her engaging storytelling, readers traverse the icy realms of Asgard and Midgard, where they encounter figures like Odin, Thor, and Loki, each with their own unique attributes and stories that have captivated audiences for centuries.
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by Lucian of Samosata
“Lucian’s True History,” authored by Lucian of Samosata, stands out as one of the earliest works of satirical science fiction and fantasy. Written in the 2nd century CE, this novel offers a witty critique of the mythological and historical accounts of its time. Lucian crafts a narrative that begins with a voyage to the moon and expands into an imaginative exploration of various fantastical realms, including encounters with strange creatures and bizarre societies.
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by Lew Wallace
“Ben Hur” by Lew Wallace is a classic historical novel that has captivated readers since its publication in 1880. Set in ancient Rome and Jerusalem, the story follows Judah Ben Hur, a Jewish prince who is betrayed by his childhood friend, Messala, and unjustly sentenced to slavery. This betrayal sets Ben Hur on a path of vengeance and redemption, intertwining his fate with pivotal events in early Christian history.
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by F. Marion Crawford
“Khaled” by F. Marion Crawford immerses readers in a mystical journey through the Arabian Peninsula, blending romance, adventure, and the supernatural. Khaled, a genie, falls in love with the beautiful princess Zehowah and wishes to marry her. He is transformed into a human, embarking on a quest to win her genuine love. Only then will he be granted a human soul, setting the stage for a series of trials and tribulations that test his newfound humanity.
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by Jules Verne
In “Five Weeks in a Balloon,” Jules Verne whisks readers away on a thrilling aerial expedition across the uncharted terrains of Africa, led by the ingenious Dr. Samuel Ferguson and his companions. As they navigate the skies in a groundbreaking hydrogen balloon, they encounter breathtaking landscapes, perilous weather, and wild encounters, all while showcasing the boundless spirit of exploration and scientific curiosity. Verne masterfully blends meticulous scientific detail with rivet… Read More
by Percy Bysshe Shelley
In “The Necessity of Atheism,” Percy Bysshe Shelley directly challenges the foundations of religious belief. Through lucid argumentation and sharp rhetoric, Shelley invites readers to confront their beliefs and embrace a worldview grounded in skepticism and scientific inquiry. This seminal work not only sparked controversy and censorship in its time but also continues to resonate today, challenging readers to reconsider the nature of belief and the role of religion in society.
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by Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin
The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, marks a pivotal moment in American history. Thomas Jefferson, tasked with drafting the document, captured the colonies’ collective resolve for freedom from British rule. The Continental Congress debated and revised Jefferson’s draft, ultimately producing a powerful proclamation that articulated the colonies’ desire for independence and their grievances against King George III.
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by William F. Cody
William F. Cody’s “The Life of Buffalo Bill” offers a vivid and captivating account of the legendary American frontier scout and showman. Written by Cody himself, the biography immerses readers in the thrilling adventures and extraordinary experiences of one of the most iconic figures of the Wild West. Through Cody’s own words, readers gain insight into his remarkable life, from his early days as a buffalo hunter and Pony Express rider to his later career as the star of B… Read More
by Karl Marx, Friedrich Engels
Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels wrote “The Communist Manifesto” in 1848 to articulate the principles and goals of communism. They created this political pamphlet during a time of significant political and economic change in Europe. The growing industrial revolution and widespread worker dissatisfaction influenced their work. Marx and Engels aimed to provide a clear explanation of communist ideology and rally the working class to overthrow the capitalist system.
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The United States Bill of Rights, ratified on December 15, 1791, firmly establishes the fundamental rights and liberties of American citizens. Crafted by James Madison, these first ten amendments to the Constitution respond directly to calls from several states for greater constitutional protection for individual freedoms. The Bill of Rights outlines specific prohibitions on governmental power, ensuring that citizens retain essential rights that the government cannot infringe upon.
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by Frederick A. Talbot
In Frederick Talbot’s “Moving Pictures,” readers are taken on a captivating journey through the history and significance of cinema. Talbot provides a comprehensive examination of the evolution of film, from its humble beginnings as a novelty to its transformation into a powerful cultural phenomenon. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous research, he traces the technological advancements, artistic innovations, and societal influences that have shaped the medium over the deca… Read More
by Jerome K. Jerome
“Three Men in a Boat” by Jerome K. Jerome is a classic comedic novel first published in 1889. It is a comedic masterpiece that chronicles the misadventures of three friends as they embark on a boating holiday along the Thames River. Jerome, who also serves as the narrator, weaves a tale filled with witty observations and humorous reflections on the peculiarities of Victorian society. Accompanied by Jerome’s mischievous dog, Montmorency, the friends navigate a series of humoro… Read More
by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper,” a seminal work of feminist literature published in 1892, immerses readers in the unsettling world of a woman grappling with confinement, mental illness, and societal oppression. Through a gripping first-person narrative, Gilman masterfully unravels the inner turmoil of a character confronted with the confines of a room adorned with yellow wallpaper. The story unfolds with haunting intensity, as her struggles against a dismissiv… Read More
by Joshua Stone
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by Victor Hugo
“Les Misérables” by Victor Hugo is a monumental work of literature that delves into the intricacies of human suffering, redemption, and the pursuit of justice in 19th-century France. The novel intricately weaves together the lives of its diverse cast of characters, from the noble-hearted Jean Valjean to the relentless Inspector Javert, the tragic Fantine, and the idealistic revolutionary Marius Pontmercy. Through their intersecting narratives, Hugo paints a vivid portrait of a socie… Read More
by Mark Twain
Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,” first published in 1884, is a cornerstone of American literature that explores themes of freedom, friendship, and moral growth through the journey of a young boy named Huck Finn. Escaping from his abusive father, Huck embarks on a raft journey down the Mississippi River, accompanied by Jim, a runaway slave seeking freedom. Their adventures and encounters with various characters reveal the social and racial injustices of the pre-Civ… Read More
by Nathaniel Hawthorne
“The Scarlet Letter” by Nathaniel Hawthorne, first published in 1850, is a classic work of American literature that delves into themes of sin, guilt, and redemption. Set in 17th-century Puritan Massachusetts, the novel follows Hester Prynne, a woman who bears an illegitimate child and is condemned to wear a scarlet letter “A” (for “adulteress”) on her chest as a mark of shame.
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by Upton Sinclair
“The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair, first published in 1906, is a seminal work of American literature that exposes the harsh realities of the meatpacking industry in Chicago. Sinclair’s novel follows the life of Jurgis Rudkus, a Lithuanian immigrant who arrives in America with dreams of prosperity, only to encounter exploitation, poverty, and despair. Through Jurgis’s harrowing experiences, Sinclair sheds light on the appalling working conditions, corruption, and lack of sani… Read More
by Titus Lucretius Carus
“On the Nature of Things” (De Rerum Natura) by Titus Lucretius Carus is a seminal work of ancient Roman literature and philosophy, written in the 1st century BCE. This epic poem, composed in six books, aims to explain the physical world through the lens of Epicurean philosophy, which Lucretius ardently followed.
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by A. A. Milne
“Winnie-the-Pooh” by A. A. Milne is a beloved classic of children’s literature, first published in 1926. The book introduces readers to the enchanting world of the Hundred Acre Wood, where the lovable bear Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends embark on delightful adventures. Milne’s charming storytelling, coupled with E. H. Shepard’s iconic illustrations, brings to life the whimsical characters of Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Tigger, and others.
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by H. C. McNeile
“Bulldog Drummond” by H. C. McNeile, writing under the pseudonym Sapper, was first published in 1920. The novel introduces readers to Hugh “Bulldog” Drummond, an iconic figure in early 20th-century British adventure fiction. Drummond, a daring and resourceful ex-World War I officer, seeks excitement and purpose in a peacetime world. Bored with civilian life, he offers his services as a troubleshooter, quickly attracting attention for his fearless spirit and imposing prese… Read More
by Giovanni Boccaccio
Giovanni Boccaccio’s “The Decameron” transports readers to 14th-century Italy during the devastating Black Death. In this vivid narrative, ten young Florentines—seven women and three men—flee their plague-stricken city to seek refuge in a serene villa in the countryside. To pass the time and keep their spirits high, they each take turns telling stories over ten days, culminating in a rich tapestry of one hundred diverse tales.
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by H. Rider Haggard
“Cleopatra” by H. Rider Haggard is a historical novel published in 1889. Set in the ancient world, it blends historical facts with Haggard’s flair for adventure and romance. The story follows Harmachis, a young Egyptian prince destined to overthrow the Greek Ptolemaic dynasty and restore native rule to Egypt. His journey is fraught with danger and intrigue as he navigates the treacherous political landscape of ancient Egypt, where alliances shift like sand dunes in the desert.
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