Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky is a psychological novel that explores the moral struggles of Raskolnikov, a poor ex-student in St. Petersburg. He commits a brutal murder, believing that certain individuals have the right to transgress moral laws for a greater good. However, after the crime, he is consumed by guilt and paranoia, leading…
The Boys’ Life of Abraham Lincoln by Helen Nicolay is a biography aimed at younger readers, detailing the life of the 16th U.S. president. It traces Lincoln’s journey from a humble childhood in a frontier cabin to his leadership during the Civil War. The book highlights his self-education, hard work, and determination, emphasizing his honesty,…
The Apology of Socrates by Plato recounts Socrates’ defense during his trial for impiety and corrupting Athenian youth. Socrates refutes the charges, arguing that he is a seeker of truth, questioning wisdom to reveal ignorance. He denies atheism, claiming he follows a divine mission. He critiques Athens for valuing wealth over virtue and insists that…
The Black Tulip by Alexandre Dumas is a historical novel set in 17th-century Holland during political turmoil. Cornelius van Baerle, a tulip enthusiast, dreams of cultivating the rare black tulip. However, he becomes the victim of jealousy and betrayal when his rival, Isaac Boxtel, accuses him of treason. Imprisoned, Cornelius meets Rosa, the jailer’s daughter,…
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas tells the story of Edmond Dantès, a young sailor falsely accused of treason and imprisoned in the Château d’If. After years of imprisonment, he learns of a hidden treasure on the island of Monte Cristo. Escaping, he assumes the identity of the Count of Monte Cristo and…
Anarchy is a philosophical and political concept that advocates for a society without a governing body or hierarchical authority. At its core, anarchy promotes the idea that people can organize themselves freely and cooperatively without the need for a centralized power structure. Anarchists believe that traditional forms of governance often lead to oppression, inequality, and…
