In perhaps the most audacious military enterprise in the history of human conquest, Cortez, with only a few hundred men, conquered a civilization of tens of thousands. This is the story of an Englishman who boards a merchant ship destined for the New World, but a shipwreck strands him in Pre-Columbian Mexico, and Roger must find a way to avoid becoming one of the many human sacrifices offered to the Aztec gods.
23 episodes
Historischer Roman, in dem der Dekabristenaufstand - die erste revolutionäre Erhebung gegen das russische Zarenregime (die Familie Romanow) - und dessen Niederschlagung im Dezember 1825 literarisch reflektiert werden.
Mit großer Authentizität beschreibt der Autor die Vorgänge um den 14. Dezember bis hin zur Verurteilung der Hauptakteure.
Wir begleiten einen wichtigen Aufständischen, den Fürsten Golyzin, vor, während und nach dem Aufstand.
Die zahlreichen Anmerkungen des Übersetzers geben Aufschluss über die am Aufstand beteiligten Personen und lassen die deutschsprachige Leserschaft erkennen, welch hohe Wertschätzung die „Dekabristen“ in Russland erfahren. (Zusammenfassung von Friedrich)
A historical novel about the 1825 Decembrist revolt in Russia.
40 episodes
In his mid-70s, Philippe Aubert de Gaspé took on the project of recording the culture and heritage of French Canada, especially that of the late 1700s, the world of his youth. The result, published in French in 1863, was the historical fiction "Les Anciens Canadiens (literally, “The Canadians of Old”).
In this book, inspired by the historical novels of Sir Walter Scott, Aubert de Gaspé collects the customs, traditions, folk tales, superstitions, and songs of the Quebec people, weaves in memories of life in his own ancestral home, and sets all this within the momentous historical events that transformed Canada in the 18th century. Much of the book is historically accurate, based sometimes on the author’s own experiences and sometimes on memories passed on to him by eyewitnesses.
For example, the account of being sent to debtor’s prison came from the author’s own experience.
The fantastic ghost story of “La Corriveau” was based on the true story of a murderess whose body was on public display in iron chains (a “cage”) for weeks after her execution. That initial incident had already blossomed into material for lurid legend; Aubert de Gaspé was the first to incorporate this legend into a work of literature.
The book’s storyline hinges on the British Conquest of Quebec in 1759 and the ensuing trauma caused to French Canada. Fictional characters are intertwined with historical figures such as a famous shipwreck survivor and specific military officers.
This book is an engaging window on cultural history and one of the first great works of French Canadian literature.
The English translator of this edition, Charles G. D. Roberts, was himself a distinguished author. He has been called “the father of Canadian poetry.” - Summary by Bruce Pirie
*Warning: Listeners may be offended by some of the racial labels and depictions. Words that were considered acceptable in the nineteenth century may be offensive today. It is LibriVox policy to leave the original wording as the author intended.*
18 episodes
Eerste deel van de cyclus: In en Uit 's Lands Dienst. Kritische roman over het leven van de Nederlanders in het Indië van het einde van de 19de eeuw.
Het uitspinnen van een intrige, het doorspelen van dezelfde personen, het altijd verder vertellen aan één geschiedenis, dit kinderlik vermaak, waarmee de journalist zijn lezers van jaargang op jaargang bleef boeien, verleidde Maurits tot een roman in vier delen, ieder met eigen titel, vermoedelik volgens model van Perelaer's tetralogie Een kwart eeuw tusschen de keerkringen, die de zijne vijf jaar vooruit was gegaan. Terwijl de militair alleen zijn eigen leven, natuurlik bont opgesierd, behandelde, liet Maurits, een kunstenaar met verbeeldingskracht en scheppingsvermogen, allerlei vertegenwoordigers van de Indiese samenleving optreden, zodat het geheel de ruimer naam ‘In en uit 's Lands dienst’ voeren kon. (Gerard Brom 1931)
11 episodes
At the opening of this story Diane Eveleth returns from a party in Paris to her mother-in-law, who tells her that her husband George Eveleth has been killed in a duel, fought with the Marquis de Bienville. Diane secretly transfers her remaining patrimony to her mother-in-law and the two women sail for New York, where the elder woman has relatives.Here Diane is offered the situation of chaperone for the daughter Dorothea of Derek Pruyn, a widower whom she has met before. Eventually, Pruyn makes her an offer of marriage. She withholds her answer until his return from a voyage to South America, when she is prepared to accept him, but on his home-coming she finds his attitude towards her completely changed. Pruyn has encountered de Bienville on his voyage and has heard from him that Diane was unfaithful to her husband.The book concentrates on how the relationships between the various protagonists develop. (Summary by Simon Evers)
26 episodes
The world knows the fate of the classic lovers Cleopatra and Mark Antony, so there is no need to announce a spoiler alert. Georg Ebers was a German Egyptologist who deftly applied his comprehensive knowledge of Rome and Egypt into a fictionalized account of the ill-fated romance between the Egyptian Queen and her Roman lover Mark Antony. (summary by reader)
29 episodes
This well-written novel is a fictional account of a true historical rescue mission. In 1719, at the age of 17, when she was on her way across Europe to marry James Stuart, the Catholic pretender to the British throne, Princess Maria Clementina Sobieska was kidnapped and held prisoner by Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, with the approval of his ally, the Protestant king of England. The king feared that the marriage would produce heirs who might raise a rebellion against the Crown, though Stuart’s own rebellion had failed four years earlier. But Irish soldier of fortune and Stuart's ablest spy, hatches a daring plot to rescue the princess. Filled with spies, romance, palace intrigue and uncertain loyalties, this is the story of how Charles Wogan, once indicted for High Treason in Protestant England, set out to play his part on the international stage. Failure would mean certain death at the hands of Wogan's powerful enemies. But would success bring the result he expects? (Jacquerie)Prooflisteners: Betty M. and Linette Geisel
23 episodes
In the unsettled years of England's War of the Roses, where a man stood on the issue of kingship could make his fortune... or end his life. Dick Shelton, a nobly-born lad, is on the cusp of manhood, and he is thrust bodily into this stew where allegiances shift under one's feet. Circumstances cause him to fall in with a gentlemaiden in boy's disguise. Until he learns of the deception, Dick is unaware that the young lady is an heiress whom his guardian Sir Daniel had kidnapped. And the introduction of an outlaw with a penchant for putting black arrows into the bodies of the men who had wronged him affords Dick a worrying hint - that Sir Daniel might have been the man that had murdered Dick's father! - Summary by Mark F. Smith
33 episodes
Leonora Stanway is 40 and lives a comfortable middle-class life with her unsympathetic and dull husband, John. Her three daughters are rapidly growing up and away and she regrets that her life has become dull, domesticated and meaningless. Arthur Twemlow, the son of John’s former business partner, blows into Leonora’s life and that of her family. Meanwhile, old Uncle Meshach has re-written his will . . . . - Summary by Simon Evers
12 episodes
Jim Kjelgaard has long wanted to tell the story of the gallant dogs who have gone out with the monks of St. Bernard Hospice to rescue travelers lost in the deep snows of the Swiss mountain passes. Unable to find the facts, he decided to reconstruct the tale as he feels it might have been. The result is this very moving story of a simple mountain boy and his devoted dog.
Franz Halle felt he was worthless because he could not manage book learning, but his schoolmaster and the village pastor knew that the boy had a priceless knowledge all his own. The kindly priest secured work for Franz at near-by St. Bernard Hospice, helping a gentle giant of a man who made it possible for him to keep his beloved Alpine mastiff, Caesar, although the huge animal refused to earn his keep, even by turning the spit. When the scarcity of food forced Caesar's reluctant banishment, Franz—who had joined the monks in their daily patrol of the dangerous passes—proved that where even he, with all his rare knowledge of the ways of the blizzards, might fail, a dog could detect a man buried under an avalanche! So Franz and his brave helper initiated the rescue work of the St. Bernard dogs that was to become famous throughout the world. - Summary from the book
14 episodes
"Monte-Cristo's Daughter," a wonderfully brilliant, original, exciting and absorbing novel, is the Sequel to "The Count of Monte-Cristo," Alexander Dumas' masterwork, and the continuation and conclusion of that great romance, "Edmond Dantès." It possesses rare power, unflagging interest and an intricate plot that for constructive skill and efficient development stands unrivalled. Zuleika, the beautiful daughter of Monte-Cristo and Haydée, is the heroine, and her suitor, the Viscount Giovanni Massetti, an ardent, impetuous young Roman, the hero. The latter, through a flirtation with a pretty flower-girl, Annunziata Solara, becomes involved in a maze of suspicion that points to him as an abductor and an assassin, causes his separation from Zuleika and converts him into a maniac. The straightening out of these tangled complications constitutes the main theme of the thrilling book. The novel abounds in ardent love scenes and stirring adventures. The Count of Monte-Cristo figures largely in it, and numerous Monte-Cristo characters are introduced.
30 episodes
When a nursemaid mixes up her baby boy and the baby of the family she works for, the family decides to keep both. Years later, the nursemaid returns, intent on using the boys to get money. When the boy she chooses first refuses to help and instead runs away, his adopted family is willing to do everything they can to rescue him. But will it be enough when war threatens in the Sudan--the runaway's destination? - Summary by Adele de Pignerolles
21 episodes
This play was produced in 1698 at Drury Lane Theatre. From the bustle of its plot, the variety of its incidents, and the sustained humour of its dialogue, it met with so favourable a reception that Farquhar henceforth devoted himself to writing for the stage. - Summary by Alex. Charles Ewald
Cast list:
Roebuck, an Irish Gentleman, of a wild roving temper, newly come to London: Algy Pug
Lovewell, his friend, sober and modest, in love with Lucinda: ToddHW
Mockmode, a young Squire, come newly from the University, and setting up for a Beau: Tomas Peter
Lyric, a Poet: Jason in Panama
Pamphlet, a Bookseller: Availle
Rigadoon, a Dancing-Master: Son of the Exiles
Nimblewrist, a Fencing-Master: Kurt
Club, Servant to Mockmode: TriciaG
Brush, Servant to Lovewell: Craig Franklin
Lucinda, a Lady of considerable Fortune: Leanne Yau
Leanthe, Sister to Lovewell, in love with Roebuck, and disguised as Lucinda's Page: Sonia
Trudge, Whore to Roebuck: Linda Olsen Fitak
Widow Bullfinch, Landlady to Mockmode, Lyric, and Trudge: TJ Burns
Pindress, Attendant and Confidante to Lucinda: Jessie Percival
Bailiff 1: Roger Melin
Bailiff 2: Larry Wilson
Cripple: alanmapstone
Porter: Owen Cook
Boy: Larry Wilson
Mask 1: Nemo
Mask 2: Sandra Schmit
Servant: Eva Davis
Stage Directions: Tom Penn
Editor: ToddHW
5 episodes
El equipaje del rey José (1875) es la primera novela de la segunda serie de los Episodios nacionales de Benito Pérez Galdós. En él, el escritor presenta a los personajes centrales de esta serie: Salvador Monsalud, Carlos Garrote, Jenara Barahona y Juan de Pipaón; a través de ellos se describe la raíz del enfrentamiento entre liberales y absolutistas -representado por la lucha personal entre Salvador Monsalud y Carlos Garrote- que se había ido incubando durante la Guerra de Independencia y que a partir de entonces marcará la historia de España. (Summary by KendalRigans)
28 episodes
"The State," he said, speaking at least as haughtily as Dea Flavia herself, "hath agreed to accept the sum of twenty aurei for this slave. 'Tis too late now to make further bids for her."
But a pair of large blue eyes, cold as the waters of the Tiber and like unto them mysterious and elusive, were turned fully on the speaker.
"Too late didst thou say, oh Taurus Antinor?" said Dea Flavia raising her pencilled eyebrows with a slight expression of scorn, "nay! I had not seen the hammer descend! The girl until then is not sold, and open to the highest bidder. Or am I wrong, O praefect, in thus interpreting the laws of Rome?"
"This is an exceptional case, Augusta," he retorted curtly.
"Then wilt thou expound to me that law which deals with such exceptional cases?" she rejoined with the same ill-concealed tone of gentle irony. "I had never heard of it; so I pray thee enlighten mine ignorance. Of a truth thou must know the law, since thou didst swear before the altar of the gods to uphold it with all thy might."
"'Tis not a case of law, Augusta, but one of pity."
The praefect, feeling no doubt the weakness of any argument which aimed at coercing this daughter of the Cæsars, prompted too by his innate respect of the law which he administered, thought it best to retreat from his position of haughty arrogance and to make an appeal, since obviously he could not command. Dea Flavia was quick to note this change of attitude, and her delicate lips parted in a contemptuous smile.
"Dost administer pity as well as law, O Taurus Antinor?" she asked coldly. - Summary from the book
36 episodes
Colonel Tempest , his wastrel son Archie and beautiful daughter Diana (Di) are dismayed when they are cut out of the will of old Mr Tempest, Colonel Tempest’s brother. All of the Tempest fortune and estates at Overleigh pass to son John. However, everyone except John knows that he is illegitimate.
Colonel Tempest, enraged, agrees in a drunken stupor to a bounty of £10,000 on John’s head although he later comes to bitterly regret this.
Meanwhile, Di, who is strong and independent, has vowed she will never marry. However, as she gets to know her cousin John, over time they become close.
John eventually learns of his illegitimacy and its implications. What will therefore happen to his deepening love for Di and his claim to the family fortune? - Summary by Simon Evers
44 episodes
Martin Guerre was a French peasant that, during a long absence, was famously impersonated in the 16th century. Although the real Martin Guerre is suspected of no serious crimes, his imposter, Arnaud du Tilh, engaged in fraud and adultery while pursuing false claims to the Guerre inheritance. Dumas later incorporates this celebrated crime into his novel “The Two Dianas.” - Summary by jvanstan
5 episodes
Colonel Chabert is a soldier, who goes missing during the Napoleonic wars, and then returns from the dead, most inconveniently for his wife, who has remarried and has gone up in the world. This novella by Balzac lays bare the venality of the French Restoration period. It has been filmed several times, most recently in the 1994 version, starring Gerard Depardieu. - Summary by Nicole Lee
7 episodes
Valjean de nuevo es capturado y condenado a trabajos forzados de por vida. Encarcelado en el puerto militar de Toulon rescata a un marinero atrapado en el aparejo de la nave. Los espectadores piden su liberación. Valjean finge su propia muerte por dejarse caer al mar. Las autoridades le dan por muerto. Entonces viaja hasta la posada de los Thérnardier en busca de Cosette. Descubriendo como tratan a la hija de la difunta Fantine, Valjean decide llevársela y adoptarla como su hija. Viven en los barrios parisinos más pobres hasta que son aceptados en un convento, al que llegan huyendo, una vez más, de Javert. Summary by Wikipedia
76 episodes
Ollantay u Ollántay es un drama escrito originalmente en quechua colonial, considerado por unos como de origen incaico —y como tal la más antigua y rotunda expresión de la literatura quechua—; y por otros como de origen hispano colonial. El más antiguo manuscrito de esta obra perteneció al sacerdote Antonio Valdés (siglo XVIII), a quien por algún tiempo se consideró su autor original; pero existen otros manuscritos divergentes que han hecho pensar en la existencia de una fuente común, de más remoto origen. La posición más aceptada actualmente es que la historia contada en el drama es de origen inca, que fue conservada durante mucho tiempo como tradición oral, hasta que en la época colonial fue adaptada para su escenificación teatral según el molde occidental, aunque continúa en el anonimato el autor o autores de tal adaptación. El general de los ejércitos incas, Ollantay, es un guerrero de origen plebeyo que por sus excelentes servicios ha sido elevado a la nobleza de privilegio y al que se le han concedido numerosos premios. Pero se enamora de Cusi Coyllur (Lucero Alegre o Estrella), hija del Inca Pachacútec (El restaurador del mundo), amor prohibido, pues de acuerdo a las leyes de Imperio, nadie, salvo otro de linaje inca, puede casarse con una princesa. No obstante, Ollantay, enceguecido por el amor, se une a Cusi Coyllur, secreto que comparte la reina madre Ccoya o Anahuarqui. Pese a los augurios en contra que le da el Huillac Uma o sumo sacerdote, Ollantay decide pedir al Inca que apruebe formalmente su unión con Cusi Coyllur. Pachacútec le recuerda a Ollantay su origen humilde y le señala su increíble audacia de querer “subir demasiado alto”; luego, enfurecido, lo expulsa de su presencia. Cusi Coyllur es encerrada en un calabozo de la casa de mujeres escogidas o Acllahuasi, donde deberá expiar su falta; allí dará a luz una niña, fruto de su amor con Ollantay, a la cual llamará Ima Súmac (Bella Niña), desde entonces ocurren diversos hechos que desencadenan en apasionados enfrentamientos entre el Inca y el que fuera su mejor guerrero: Ollanta. Summary by Ricardo Palma
Ollantay or Ollantay is a drama originally written in colonial Quechua, considered by some to be of Inca origin - and as such the oldest and most outspoken expression of Quechua literature; and by others as of Hispanic colonial origin. The oldest manuscript of this work belonged to the priest Antonio Valdes (eighteenth century), who for some time was considered its original author; but there are other divergent manuscripts that have made us think of the existence of a common source, of more remote origin. The most accepted position today is that the story told in the drama is of Inca origin, that was conserved for a long time as oral tradition until in colonial times it was adapted for its theatrical staging according to the western mold, although the author of this adaptation remains unknown. The General of the Inca armies, Ollantay, is a warrior of plebeian origin who has been elevated to the nobility of privilege for his excellent services and who has been awarded numerous prizes. He falls in love with Cusi Coyllur, daughter of the Inca Pachacútec (The Restorer of the World). Their love is forbidden, since according to the laws of Empire no one except one of Inca lineage can marry a princess. Nevertheless, Ollantay, blinded by this love, is united to Cusi Coyllur, a secret shared by the queen mother Ccoya or Anahuarqui. In spite of the auguries against him by the Huillac Uma, Ollantay decides to ask the Inca to formally approve his union with Cusi Coyllur. Pachacútec reminds Ollantay of his humble origins and points out his incredible audacity to want to "climb too high"; then, enraged, expels him from his presence. Cusi Coyllur is imprisoned in the house Acllahuasi, where she must atone for her fault; there she gives birth to a girl, the fruit of her love with Ollantay, whom she will call Ima Súmac (Bella Niña). These events trigger passionate clashes between the Inca and his best warrior: Ollanta. Summary by Ricardo Palma
35 episodes
A stranger rides across the Kentish countryside when his attention is called to a cottage where violence is being done to an elderly couple. The knight, for such he appears to be, rushes to their aid. Soon after, the strange and prophetic Sir Cesar appears on the scene and foretells of danger ahead. We follow this knight as he encounters an evil landowner; the good and faithful Longpole, son of the elderly couple; the beneficent Duke of Buckingham--or is he a traitor?; and the coquettish Lady Katrine. He is reunited with his kindly but naif old tutor and a childhood companion, now grown into the beautiful Lady Constance. How will each help or hinder him in obtaining his goal of an audience with King Henry VIII and gaining back his ancestral home for his disgraced father and himself? A tale spanning the courts of Henry VIII of England and Francis I of France, the climax comes at the famous meeting between the two monarchs on 'the Field of the Cloth of Gold'.( Lynne Thompson)
41 episodes
Mr Prohack, an ordinary official in the Treasury and leading a hum-drum life, suddenly and unexpectedly inherits a large sum of money which, with a lucky investment, he turns into a fortune. This humorous book follows his progress and that of his wife, son and daughter who all, in their different ways, slowly get used to their new lives. - Summary by Simon Evers
26 episodes
First published as a serial in Fraser's Magazine in 1844 as The Luck of Barry Lyndon, The Memoirs of Barry Lyndon, Esq is a picaresque novel, narrated (occasionally charmingly, always unreliably) by a member of the 18th-century Irish gentry. Redmond Barry, later Barry Lyndon, describes his rise to - and inevitable fall from - the top of the English aristocracy. Romantic, military and political intrigue, as well as satire and pathos, follow. Editorial notes, courtesy of Thackeray's fictitious alter ego, G. S. FitzBoodle, interject further levels of irony, humour and detachment.Thackeray, who based the novel in part on the life and exploits of the Anglo-Irish rake and fortune-hunter Andrew Robinson Stoney, among other historical sources, significantly revised and reissued the book in 1856 under its current title.Its unreliable, morally dubious narrator, metafictional editor, and multiple layers of interpretive possibility make it a fascinating precursor to the modern novel, while Thackeray's characteristic interest in the specifics of 18th-century life ensures a rich and engaging backdrop.In 1975, Stanley Kubrick adapted the book for his film Barry Lyndon, since widely regarded as one of the finest films ever made.This audiobook was read from a 1902 edition edited by Walter Jerrold, who provides a brief introduction. - Summary by mb
22 episodes
In this third installment from the “Ragged Dick” series by Horatio Algers, Jr., the reader is reacquainted with some old friends and meets young Mark Manton. Mark is a match boy plagued by bad luck and an even worse guardian. But, with new friends, hard work, and smart choices, Mark may just find his luck taking a turn for the better. summary by tfaulder
13 episodes
Callista, A Tale of the Third Century, was written by John Henry Newman, who was a scholarly and personable Anglican theologian who became a Catholic priest and cardinal, bringing a good number of Protestant friends along with him into the Roman faith. He wrote Callista as the fruit of a challenge (dare we say “bet”?) with Cardinal Nicholas Wiseman that each man would write a novel about the early church. Wiseman wrote Fabiola and Newman wrote Callista, publishing it in 1855. The title character is a beautiful and talented, but unhappy Greek woman living in pagan Roman North Africa in the third century. She is wooed by a lonely young Christian man, for whom she shows little interest, though she deeply desires to know more about his Christian faith. However, the third century was a dangerous time for Christians, with the onset of persecution under the Emperor Decius. The colorful cast of characters react to the persecution in different ways, but some are put to the ultimate test of whether they will maintain their faith at the price of torture and painful death. Cardinal Newman's writing style is often lively, and occasionally humorous, especially in his conversations. But there is no denying that modern readers may find parts of it quite wordy, particularly in the descriptions of geography (beware Chapter 1!). Most readers are likely to find themselves caring very much about the characters, and cheering for their victories, in addition to learning quite a bit about 3rd century history along the way. (summary by Carol Pelster)
36 episodes
Een waargebeurd verhaal uit Nederlands Indië. Adam Silver, kind van een Engelsman en een inlandse vrouw, wordt verstoten uit de blanke gemeenschap en bekeert zich tot de Islam. Het verhaal is oorspronkelijk gepubliceerd onder het pseudoniem Maurits als feuilleton in het Indische Vaderland - Marcel Coenders
47 episodes
Manuel Montes de Oca (Medina-Sidonia, 1804 – Vitoria, 20 de octubre de 1841) fue un marino y ministro de Marina, Comercio y Ultramar durante la presidencia de Espartero. Dirigió las acciones militares para sofocar los motines contra Espartero y organizó el levantamiento de 1841 en las Vascongadas. Montes de Oca es la octava novela de la Tercera Serie de los Episodios Nacionales de Benito Pérez Galdós. Se aparta momentáneamente de la historia de Fernando Calpena para poder trasladar la narración a Madrid, siendo el protagonista Santiago Ibero. Summary by Tux.
30 episodes
The book concerns the tangled lives of four people: Zora, a young widow who seeks some purpose in her life; Septimus Dix, an other-wordly but kind-hearted inventor of hopeless things; Clem Sypher, a larger than life businessman who is convinced his quack remedy will save the world; and Emmy, Zora’s younger sister, a rather flighty actress. (Summary by Simon Evers)
23 episodes
G.P.R. James was a historian and novelist, who took well-documented historical events and characters and wove stories around minor or imaginary actors in the events. In this work, set in seventeenth century France, we follow the adventures of young Louis, heir to the Count of Bigorre, after an encounter with the vindictive Marquis de Saint Brie forces him into exile. The tale wends its way inexorably towards the Battle of Marfee in the 30 years War and the death of the Count of Soissons in a failed coup against the much hated minister, Cardinal de Richelieu. Young love, a brush with the law, card sharks, a deadly avalanche-- life is definitely interesting for the young adventurer.
49 episodes
One hundred years before the current hit musical Hamilton, Mary Hamlin wrote this historical play for Broadway with a big actor of the day, George Arliss, as co-author playing the leading role. It was made into a movie in 1931 with Arliss also playing the lead. - Summary by ToddHW
Cast list:
Alexander Hamilton: Tomas Peter
General Schuyler: Amelia Chesley
Thomas Jefferson: Wolfgang Bas
James Monroe: Aleacia Messiah
William B. Giles: Donald Gilmore
Count Tallyrand: Delmar H Dolbier
John Jay, Chief Justice: Joseph Tabler
Zekiel: EJWiley
James Reynolds: Chuck Williamson
Colonel Lear: Campbell Schelp
First Man: Nemo
Second Man: Eva Davis
Betsy Hamilton: Availle
Angelica Church: TJ Burns
Mrs. Reynolds: Leanne Yau
Soldier's Wife: Foon
Melissa: Foon
Stage Directions and Edited by: ToddHW
4 episodes
’St. George and St. Michael’ is a little-known historical romance telling the story of a young couple who find themselves on opposing sides during the tumultuous years of the English Civil Wars.Tensions are rising between king and parliament, the Church of England and the numerous independent puritans, and rumours abound that Charles I will soon declare open war on the dissident elements within his realm. Seventeen-year-old Dorothy Vaughan knows little of the brewing conflict, yet is sure that her loyalty must be with her king and her nation. When she challenges her childhood friend, Richard Heywood, to prove himself a man and so worthy of winning her hand in marriage by becoming involved in the larger events that surround them, he finds that his convictions – both political and spiritual – lie with his father’s and the puritans. Determined to do what he believes is right, Richard finds that he cannot shake his immovable conscience, even for the woman he loves.
Though it is, for the most part, a realistic novel, ‘St. George and St. Michael’ is not without either the otherwordly atmosphere of the fantastic or the rich spiritual depth that characterises so much of MacDonald’s writing.Volume 1
22 episodes
¿Es necesario describir los tres mosqueteros? Advierta el lector que serán más bien cuatro..., pero no adelantemos acontecimientos sin permiso del Rey o, al menos, de la Reina. - Summary by Tux
70 episodes
Ringgold Wilmer "Ring" Lardner was an American sports columnist and short story writer best known for his satirical writings about sports, marriage, and the theatre. He was a contemporary of Ernest Hemingway, Virginia Woolf and F. Scott Fitzgerald, all of whom professed strong admiration for Lardner's writing. ( Wikipedia )
11 episodes
On a trans-continental train journey into Paris, Max, a young adventurer determined to make his way as an artist, meets Blake, a well-to-do Irishman. Blake helps Max set up a studio in Montmartre and they enjoy the life of Paris and each other's company. However, things are definitely not what they seem and the book takes a very contemporary turn as another person appears on the scene. - Summary by Simon Evers
41 episodes
What if the Confederacy had won the American Civil War? It’s July 1864 and three oh-so-young Union troopers are assigned to a mountaintop in Tennessee to be a link in a chain of flag signalers across a ridge of mountains. They encounter a dizzying gorge with a rickety bridge, bears, aching heartache, freezing cold, avalanche, bats, skeletons, deserted cabins, puzzling mysteries, starvation, and more. (David Wales)
14 episodes
The Protestant Sir John Chester and the Catholic Geoffrey Haredale have been feuding for years. In "Romeo and Juliet" fashion, Chester's son and Haredale's niece wish to marry, but their relatives oppose the union. A tale of love and intrigue set against the historical events of 1780, when an anti-Catholic mob caused more damage to London than had ever been seen before. And the simple young man Barnaby who becomes caught up in events he does not quite understand. (Brad Filippone)
83 episodes
General Order No. 11 has been issued by Union General Thomas Ewing in 1863. The goal was to deprive pro-Confederates in western Missouri of power and resources. The consequences are far reaching, still affecting the four counties until this very day. The novel, Order No. 11, A Tale Of The Border, tells about the order through the eyes of people who, with little choice, had to leave behind everything they knew. The book was a regional best seller. But the order is little known today. So here is a link to more information, just in case you want to learn more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Order_No._11_(1863)
- Summary by Stav Nisser and Wikipedia. Proof-listened by DrPGould, Forbes, and aniroo
49 episodes
A Legend of Montrose is one of Sir Walter Scott's Tales of my Landlord. It is set in the tumultuous 17th century during the Earl of Montrose's military campaign in Scotland. Allan M'Aulay and his friend Lord Menteith both serve in Montrose's army, together with the loose cannon Dugald Dalgetty. The friends are also both in love with Annot Lyle, a beautiful young lady of mysterious heritage. Will they all make it through the war, and which of the friends will Annot finally choose? - Summary by Carolin
27 episodes
Mrs Norton is the wife of the Political Officer and confident of Mr. Wargrave who as an officer ends up at her husbands Border Outpost, Ranga Duar in British India after meeting Violet on a different Border Outpost. This is the story of Mr. Wargrave, Mr. Norton, his wife and the people assigned to Ranga Duar as they protect the area, including the forests. We are introduced to Miss Benson the "Jungle Girl", also a love interest of Mr. Wargrave as he lives and participates in daily life in the area that they protect. - Summary by Lynda Marie Neilson
15 episodes
The conclusion of Pater's historico-philosophical novel about a young Roman nobleman's search for purpose and meaning. Set in the time of Caesar Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, the book traces its title character's encounters with the stoicism of Aurelius, Eastern philosophical and religious movements, and Christianity as they reacted with Marius's own innate Epicureanism.
In exploring these issues, Pater focuses on themes of adult development, as he notes the impact of Marius's childhood experiences as they inform his adult thinking; the value of the aesthetic life (a favorite idea of Pater's); and the appeal of religion.
In addition, the work is stylistically distinct for its attempt to use classical historical and philosophical texts
to support and enrich a fictional narrative.
(DrPGould with help from Wikipedia)
14 episodes
The book follows the fortunes of Jennie Follett, a New York artist’s model, and Teddy, her brother. After their father’s dismissal from his lowly position in the bank and his subsequent death, the family struggles financially. In desperation, Teddy steals money from the bank where he also works, with disastrous consequences. Jennie meanwhile agrees to marry Bob Collingham, a member of a seriously rich banking family, who has fallen in love with her.
29 episodes
This adventure historical fiction novel is set in Angus, Scotland during the Jacobite rebellion of 1745. It has all the elements of a good war novel: spies, betrayals, politics, and even a love story (but not quite what you expect). This is a smart novel with wise insights into human nature, the different choices people make during a conflict, and the coping mechanisms of those who were left behind. This novel will make you laugh, cry, and fall in love with the landscape of Scotland. - Summary by Stav Nisser.
27 episodes
'The Cloister and the Hearth', by Charles Reade, was published in 1861. It's a long and winding picaresque novel set in 15th century Europe, telling the story of the love between Gerard Eliason, an artist turned priest, and Margaret Brandt, the daughter of a poor scholar, and reflects the conflict between family and church which overshadowed the lives of so many in medieval times.
Its uniqueness lies in the way Reade, having meticulously researched his subject and the period, gives us insights more detailed than any other writer of fiction into medieval lifestyles and morals, combined with vivid descriptions of his characters – many based on real historical figures – and locations. He deliberately strays towards a medieval writing style, with many an archaic word to tantalise the reader or listener (an education in itself).
Until well into the twentieth century, ‘The Cloister and the Hearth’ was considered one of the greatest novels in the English language. Its popularity may have faded, but those who have read it will tell you of the enduring power of Reade’s tour de force. A revival is long overdue, and is deserved: it’s an exceptional book.
- Summary by Tom Denholm
106 episodes
"The letters (non-partisan) of Hon. William Bradley, Ex-Governor and former veteran of practical politics, written to his friend and protege Ned who is still busy 'carving a career back in the old state.'" ( F. Crissey) This is a novel filled with humorous political anecdotes by the main character, the Honorable William Bradley, told for the benefit of his protege, Ned. It conveys a sense of the ironic and humorous side of politics in Washington and back in their home state.
23 episodes
Two wealthy families are neighbors in Elizabethan England; one is staunchly Catholic and the other is devoutly Protestant. The attractive young scions of the families are drawn to each other in friendship and love, but are kept apart by their opposing religions. Life is very difficult for Catholics during those times. They are subject to fines, imprisonment, torture and ignominious death for practicing their faith. On the other hand, for various reasons some Catholics give up their inherited faith, and even betray and persecute their fellow-religionists. As the threads of plot are woven tighter, heroes emerge, sometimes most unexpectedly, as they grapple with theological doubts and conflicts, and undergo extreme suffering and loss. The many characters we meet ring true, whether they are brilliant or superstitious, stalwart or wavering, pious or violent; and it is a great privilege to spend time with such towering historical figures as St. Edmond Campion and Queen Elizabeth herself. Love, history, theology, suspense, and an array of colorful characters are sewn inexorably together in this large and compelling story. (Intro by Carol Pelster)
41 episodes
Wilhelm Meinhold, a Pomeranian priest working on the Island of Usedom, relates the story of Mary Schweidler, the Amber Witch. The author assures us that the story he has to tell is based on a manuscript he found in the parish church, originally written by a previous pastor named Abraham Schweidler. Schweidler chronicles how his own daughter Mary was trapped and accused of witchcraft. - Summary by Carolin
24 episodes
En estas "Memorias de un cortesano de 1815" (segunda entrega de la segunda serie de Episodios Nacionales), Benito Pérez Galdós nos narra, en la figura de Juan de Pipaón, el ascenso social de este personaje, así como sus artimañas para conseguir estar en lo mas alto de la realeza. El tono sarcástico con que lo hace muestra la exquisitéz que sólo Pérez Galdós tiene para narrar historia. Así mismo, en el transcurso de la novela se nos narran hechos históricos, que como ya es harto conocido es una de las materias centrales en esta serie de Episodios Nacionales. Todos los sucesos narrados ocurren durante el mando de Fernando VII de España en Madrid. Resumen de KendalRigans.
26 episodes
A romance with the backdrop of the notorious Star Chamber of the English legal system. The Chamber began as purely administrative, but gradually took on more of a judicial role, enforcing the monarch's will when the courts could or would not do so. As the mix of fact and fiction unfolds in this tale, the court is beginning to lose favor during the reign of James I as the church once again increased its power, while Parliament's power decreased as the monarch tried to rule without them. - Summary by Lynne Thompson
29 episodes
A ROLLICKING YARN FROM AN AUSTRALIAN LEGEND
Banjo Paterson is our best known and most loved bush poet. Less well known, but no less captivating, are his warm and funny novels about Australian life.
An Outback Marriage tells of a young Englishman on a tour of the colonies, who gets more than he bargained for when he sets out to find the heir to a fortune. This is the story not of one marriage but several, bringing the whole of colonial society - from the squattocracy to cattle rustlers - to vivid, unforgettable life.
No writer better captured the heart of early Australia better than Paterson - the landscape, the weather, the trials and the earthy humour that was the key to survival.
29 episodes
This is the fourth volume of the 15-volume series of The World’s Story: a history of the World in story, song and art, edited by Eva March Tappan. Each book is a compilation of selections from prose literature, poetry and pictures and offers a comprehensive presentation of the world's history, art and culture, from the early times till the beginning of the 20th century. Topics in Part IV include Greek mythology, the classical Greek period and the Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire. - Summary by Sonia
Cast list for The sacrifice of Iphigenia:
Iphigenia: Devorah Allen / Chorus: alanmapstone / Messenger: Foon / Clytemnestra: Monika M.C. / Agamemnon: Tomas Peter / Narrator: Sonia
Cast list for The bout between the poets:
Dionysus: alanmapstone / Aeschylus: TJ Burns / Chorus: Monika M.C. / Euripides: Tomas Peter / Voice: Foon / Pluto: Nemo / Narrator: Sonia
Cast list for The sale of the philosophers:
Jupiter: alanmapstone / Mercury: Tomas Peter / First Customer: TJ Burns / Pythagoras: Foon / Second Customer: Sandra Schmit / Diogenes: Son of the Exiles / Third Customer: Angelique G. Campbell / Fourth Customer: Monika M.C. / Democritus: Jim Locke / Heraclitus: Devorah Allen / Socrates: Roger Melin / Fifth Customer: April6090 / Sixth Customer: Craig Franklin / Seventh Customer: ToddHW / Chrysippus: Larry Wilson / Eighth Customer: SaraHale / Ninth Customer: Eva Davis / Pyrrho: Nemo/ Narrator: Sonia
Cast list for At the funeral of Caesar:
First Citizen: alanmapstone / Second Citizen: Monika M.C. / Third Citizen: Foon / Fourth Citizen: TJ Burns / Brutus: Nemo / Antony: Tomas Peter / Narrator: Sonia
94 episodes
