Vanitas: Polite Stories by Vernon Lee

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About this eBook

Author Lee, Vernon, 1856-1935
Title Vanitas: Polite Stories
Note Reading ease score: 66.3 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.
Contents Lady Tal -- A Worldly Woman -- The Legend of Madame Krasinska.
Credits E-text prepared by Delphine Lettau and the Online Distributed Proofreading Canada Team
Summary "Vanitas: Polite Stories" by Vernon Lee is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work features a series of narratives that delve into the lives of frivolous women, intertwining significant themes around the societal expectations and deeper moral complexities that underlie their seemingly trivial existences. The initial story introduces characters such as Jervase Marion and Lady Atalanta, setting the stage for explorations of their relationships and the intricacies of their lives within a luxurious yet superficial social milieu. The opening of the collection provides a glimpse into an elegant Venetian setting filled with social gatherings and artistic discussions. Jervase Marion, a psychological novelist, finds himself surrounded by a cast of colorful characters, including the enigmatic Lady Tal, who navigates the complexities of her widowhood and societal pressures. As Marion observes and interacts with Lady Tal and her circle, he grapples with his fascination for her character while reflecting on the deeper emotions and motivations beneath the societal facades. The narrative's rich descriptions and nuanced character dynamics hint at a gripping exploration of themes such as identity, duty, and the challenges of genuine emotional connection amidst a backdrop of performative elegance. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Language English
LoC Class PR: Language and Literatures: English literature
Subject English fiction
Category Text
EBook-No. 34252
Release Date
Copyright Status Public domain in the USA.
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