| Author |
Conrad, Joseph, 1857-1924 |
| Title |
An Outcast of the Islands
|
| Note |
Reading ease score: 81.2 (6th grade). Easy to read.
|
| Credits |
Produced by Judith Boss and David Widger
|
| Summary |
"An Outcast of the Islands" by Joseph Conrad is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story explores the complex lives of its characters against the backdrop of colonial settings in the East Indies, focusing particularly on themes of identity, betrayal, and moral ambiguity. The protagonist, Willems, is a conflicted character whose ambition and actions lead him to a precarious position on the fringes of society, suggesting a deeper commentary on colonial exploitation and personal downfall. At the start of the novel, we are introduced to Willems, a man who struggles with his identity and morality. He initially views a misguided venture into dishonesty as a minor detour, believing he can easily return to his virtuous life. As he interacts with his wife Joanna and the Da Souza family, it becomes clear that his sense of superiority derived from his European status is shallow and ultimately fragile. In a critical scene, Willems experiences a dramatic confrontation with Joanna, revealing the tensions in their relationship that stem from his arrogance and neglect. The opening sets a tone of impending tragedy, establishing Willems as a man increasingly alienated from those around him and foreshadowing the chaotic moral landscape he must navigate. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
|
| Language |
English |
| LoC Class |
PR: Language and Literatures: English literature
|
| Subject |
Psychological fiction
|
| Subject |
Clerks -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Europeans -- Southeast Asia -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Trading companies -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Betrayal -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Lingard, Tom (Fictitious character) -- Fiction
|
| Subject |
Southeast Asia -- Fiction
|
| Category |
Text |
| EBook-No. |
638 |
| Release Date |
Jan 9, 2006 |
| Most Recently Updated |
Jan 27, 2021 |
| Copyright Status |
Public domain in the USA. |
| Downloads |
417 downloads in the last 30 days. |
|
Project Gutenberg eBooks are always free!
|
