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"The Crime of the Boulevard" (French title: "Le Crime de Boulevard") is a novel written by Jules Claretie, a French author and literary figure. The book was originally published in 1903. The story revolves around a crime that takes place on a boulevard in Paris, capturing the essence of the city during the Belle Époque era. The plot likely involves a combination of mystery, intrigue, and possibly elements of social commentary, considering the time and setting.
This early work by Charles G. D. Roberts was originally published in 1903 and we are now republishing it with a brand new introductory biography. The plot is set in the frontier Canadian wilderness. The characters live the simple and adventurous life demanded by the spirit of the time. It is an incredibly interesting and captivating read for the fans of pioneer adventure novels. 'Children of the Wild' is a novel by this prolific author of fiction and poetry. Charles G. D. Roberts was born on 10th January 1860, in Douglas, New Brunswick, Canada. Roberts's most successful literary genre was that of the animal story which featured in works such as Earth's Enigmas (1896) and Eyes of the Wilderness (1933). He also wrote romance novels and several non-fiction works on Canada.
Benedictus de Spinoza, commonly known as Baruch Spinoza, was a Dutch philosopher of Portuguese Sephardic Jewish origin. He lived in the 17th century and is considered one of the most important figures in the history of Western philosophy. "The Philosophy of Spinoza" generally refers to the entirety of his philosophical ideas, as presented in his major work, "Ethics," also known as "Ethics Demonstrated in Geometrical Order." "Ethics" is Spinoza's magnum opus, written in Latin and published posthumously in 1677. The work is structured in a geometric fashion, emulating the style of Euclidean geometry, with axioms, propositions, and demonstrations. Spinoza's philosophical system is deeply rationalistic and monistic, and it has had a profound impact on subsequent philosophical thought. Here are some key elements of Spinoza's philosophy as presented in "Ethics": Substance Monism: Spinoza posits a single, infinite, and necessarily existing substance, which he identifies with God or Nature. Everything that exists is a modification or expression of this singular substance. Pantheism: Spinoza's conception of God is pantheistic, suggesting that God and nature are identical. God is not a personal deity with anthropomorphic qualities but an all-encompassing, immanent force in the universe. Determinism: Spinoza argues for a deterministic universe in which everything is a result of the necessary and eternal laws of nature. Human freedom, according to Spinoza, lies in understanding and embracing this deterministic framework. Ethics and Morality: Spinoza develops a moral philosophy that emphasizes the importance of reason and understanding in achieving human well-being. He advocates for a life guided by reason, self-knowledge, and intellectual love of God or nature. Mind-Body Parallelism: Spinoza proposes a parallelism between the mental and the physical aspects of reality. Mind and body are two aspects of the same underlying substance, and mental states correspond to physical states. Spinoza's philosophy is challenging and profound, and his ideas have been interpreted in various ways by subsequent philosophers. While he faced criticism and condemnation during his lifetime, Spinoza's work has gained widespread recognition and influence in the fields of philosophy, theology, and psychology.
"For Faith and Freedom" is a historical novel written by Walter Besant. The book was first published in 1889 and is set in the late 17th century during the Monmouth Rebellion, a Protestant uprising against the Catholic rule of James II in England. The novel follows the story of Richard Coppinger, a young man who becomes involved in the Monmouth Rebellion due to his commitment to the Protestant cause and his desire for religious freedom. Richard's journey takes him through the tumultuous events of the rebellion, including the Battle of Sedgemoor, which was a significant conflict during the uprising. Walter Besant, a prolific and versatile Victorian novelist, was known for his historical fiction and social commentary. "For Faith and Freedom" reflects Besant's interest in historical events and his exploration of themes related to religious and political freedom. The novel captures the spirit of the times and provides readers with a vivid portrayal of the political and religious tensions in 17th-century England. The title itself, "For Faith and Freedom," suggests the central themes of the novel, emphasizing the characters' struggles for religious liberty and their commitment to their beliefs in the face of political adversity. If you enjoy historical fiction set in this period, exploring themes of faith, freedom, and historical events, Walter Besant's "For Faith and Freedom" may be an intriguing read.
"Christmas Outside of Eden" is a novella written by Coningsby Dawson, a British-Canadian novelist and soldier known for his writings during and after World War I. Published in 1925, this novella is a thought-provoking and philosophical work that explores the meaning and significance of Christmas. The story is set in the trenches of World War I during the Christmas season. It depicts a group of British soldiers who are enduring the hardships and horrors of the war. Despite the grim and chaotic circumstances of battle, these men, from different backgrounds and with varying perspectives, find themselves sharing a unique and poignant Christmas together. The central theme of the novella revolves around the idea of finding moments of peace, unity, and humanity amidst the chaos and brutality of war. As they huddle in their makeshift trenches, the soldiers exchange stories, share their experiences, and reflect on the nature of the Christmas holiday and its significance in their lives. The characters in the story grapple with questions about faith, hope, and the enduring power of human connection, even in the most dire circumstances. "Christmas Outside of Eden" is not a traditional holiday story filled with festivities and cheer. Instead, it delves into the deeper, more profound aspects of the Christmas spirit, highlighting the enduring values of love, compassion, and the shared human experience. The novella invites readers to contemplate the true essence of Christmas and how it can be found in unexpected places, even in the midst of war. Coningsby Dawson's writing is characterized by its emotional depth and philosophical exploration. The book's portrayal of the soldiers' experiences and their conversations provides a unique perspective on the impact of the First World War and the universal themes of hope and humanity. "Christmas Outside of Eden" is a contemplative and poignant work that challenges readers to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and the enduring qualities that make it a special time of year, even in the most challenging of circumstances.
The highest courage is impossible without self-conquest. And self-conquest is never easy. A man may be a marvel of physical courage, and be a coward in matters of self-government. Failure here threatens dire disaster to his entire career. John Thomson Faris's 1920 work "The Book of Courage" is a vintage self-help book that focuses on courage and its importance in attaining happiness and success. Self-help books aim to help the reader with problems, offering them clear and effective guidance on how obstacles can be passed and solutions found, especially with regard to common issues and day-to-day life.
Stijn Streuvels, whose real name was Frank Lateur, was a Belgian author known for his contributions to Flemish literature. He wrote novels, short stories, and essays, and his works often depicted rural life in Flanders. The title of the book presents its great theme about individual lives being laid out like a path, each with its own possible turnings. In this case, the main protagonist is a young girl of lively intelligence who is being prepared for her first holy communion. Layer by layer, the path to that special day is built up - the practice sessions, the special clothing, the special attention given to a village's new "class" of Catholic children. The book concludes by pointing to the often difficult challenges individuals have to face after the "special day" is over, focusing on the loss of the protected status of childhood and alluding to the darker aspects of life as a young woman from an economically less advantaged country family.
"A Short System of English Grammar" is a grammar book written by Henry Bate. The book aim to provide a systematic and comprehensive overview of the rules and principles governing the English language. Cover topics such as sentence structure, parts of speech, syntax, punctuation, and common grammatical errors. The emphasis can vary from basic grammar rules suitable for beginners to more advanced concepts for those looking to deepen their understanding of the language. ¿USAGE and Custom are the Rules and Measures of every Language, and the Rules of GRAMMAR have nothing more to do, than to teach it. The GRAMMAR is to be fashioned from the particular Language, it treats of, and not the Language from the GRAMMAR. For want of following this regular Plan, our Modern GRAMMARIANS have introduced the GRAMMAR Rules of other Languages into their own; as if all Language was founded on GRAMMAR, and the Rules in one Language would serve the same End and Purpose in another."
"Christmas with Grandma Elsie" is a part of the "Elsie Dinsmore" series written by Martha Finley. This beloved and enduring series of books, which were first published in the 19th century, focuses on the life, moral development, and adventures of Elsie Dinsmore and her family. "Christmas with Grandma Elsie" is one of the many titles in this series and centers around the Christmas season in the Dinsmore household. In this particular installment, Elsie Dinsmore, the main character, is now a grown woman with her own family. She is married to her childhood sweetheart, Edward Travilla, and they have a daughter named Elsie. The story revolves around the Dinsmore family's celebrations and gatherings during the Christmas holiday. The book presents a heartwarming and wholesome portrayal of a 19th-century American family's Christmas traditions. It highlights the importance of faith, love, and togetherness during the holiday season. Readers witness the characters' preparations for Christmas, their interactions, and the joy they find in being with one another. Martha Finley's "Elsie Dinsmore" series was originally written for young readers and is known for its strong moral and religious themes. Throughout the series, readers follow Elsie's growth and development as she navigates various challenges and life experiences, always guided by her Christian faith and values. "Christmas with Grandma Elsie" is a delightful addition to the series, focusing on the holiday season and the timeless values associated with Christmas, making it a heartwarming and educational read for those interested in historical Christian fiction and family-oriented literature. It captures the essence of a simpler time and the enduring importance of love, faith, and family during the Christmas season.
"Christmas Tales and Christmas Verse" is a collection of Christmas-themed stories and poems written by Eugene Field, an American author and poet known for his works that often evoke a sense of nostalgia, innocence, and whimsy. The book was first published in 1912 and has since become a classic of holiday literature. The collection includes a delightful assortment of stories and poems that capture the spirit and magic of Christmas. Eugene Field's writing is known for its charm and its ability to transport readers to a simpler and more heartwarming time. Some of the most beloved pieces in the book include: "The First Christmas Tree": This story tells the tale of the first Christmas tree in an American home. It beautifully weaves together history, tradition, and the spirit of giving, making it a heartwarming and historically significant piece. "Christmas Treasures": A poem that reflects on the simple joys and treasures of the holiday season, reminding readers of the importance of love, family, and goodwill. "Jest 'Fore Christmas": This poem presents the anticipation and excitement that children feel on the night before Christmas, capturing the magic and wonder of the holiday. "Little Boy Blue": A touching poem that reflects on the passing of time and the nostalgia for childhood and innocence, with a Christmas theme. "Christmas Hymn": A hymn-like poem that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the religious significance of Christmas. The collection as a whole creates a warm and sentimental atmosphere, perfect for reading during the holiday season. Eugene Field's writing style and themes make "Christmas Tales and Christmas Verse" a timeless work that continues to enchant readers with its celebration of the holiday's true meaning and the traditions that make it special.
"The Christmas Books of Mr. M.A. Titmarsh" is a collection of five Christmas-themed stories written by the British author William Makepeace Thackeray, who is best known for his satirical novels such as "Vanity Fair." The pseudonym "Mr. M.A. Titmarsh" was used by Thackeray for his lighter and more humorous works. These stories were published in various periodicals during the 1830s and 1840s and have been compiled into a single volume. The five Christmas stories included in this collection are: "Mrs. Perkins's Ball" (1847): This is a humorous tale set at a Christmas ball, focusing on the characters and social interactions during the event. Thackeray's wit and keen observations of human behavior are on full display in this story. "Our Street" (1848): In this story, the narrator takes readers on a tour of a London street during Christmastime, describing the various characters and their preparations for the holiday season. It's a charming and nostalgic exploration of Victorian Christmas traditions. "Doctor Birch and His Young Friends" (1848): This story is a continuation of Thackeray's earlier novel "The Book of Snobs." It features Dr. Birch, a headmaster, and a group of young students, and it satirizes the manners and pretensions of the upper classes. "The Kickleburys on the Rhine" (1850): This story follows the travel adventures of the Kicklebury family as they tour the Rhine River during the Christmas season. Thackeray uses the journey as an opportunity for humorous social commentary. "The Rose and the Ring" (1855): While not a Christmas story in the traditional sense, this fairy tale is included in the collection. It tells the story of a magical ring and the comical events that unfold when it comes into the possession of two young princes. The story is a delightful and imaginative departure from Thackeray's usual style. These stories offer a mix of humor, satire, and social commentary, reflecting the wit and storytelling skills for which Thackeray is known. While they may not be as famous as his major novels, "The Christmas Books of Mr. M.A. Titmarsh" provides readers with a glimpse into Thackeray's lighter, more festive side as he explores the holiday season and the quirks of human nature. The collection is a delightful addition to Victorian literature and remains a cherished part of Thackeray's literary legacy.
Learn more about the role that spirituality can play in health, healing, and wellness in this volume from renowned Baptist minister Russell Conwell, who revolutionized Christian thought with his work on self-help in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The health and happiness of mankind depend in a great degree on faith. Every emotion of the body and every action of the mind is an exhibition of faith. Persons who believe they are well, even if they are ill, will soon recover, and persons who believe that they will not be sick are seldom ill. There is no department of human life so dependent on belief as that connected with health. Millions would arise, take up their couches and walk, if they could be made to believe that they could do so. To believe a falsehood has cured many people, and consciences waver between the duty to tell a patient the clear truth when he is very ill and to make him believe a lie in order that he may get well.It must also be stated, in fidelity to the truth, that the subject of healing by faith has called out a host of the half-insane classes who proclaim with trumpet tones some cases of divine healing which are unworthy of a moment's consideration. Hence, out of a collection of possibly sincere letters, many have been rejected altogether as foolish or misleading. Eleven hundred written testimonies to cases of healing in direct answer to prayer at the Baptist Temple have been carefully examined and the trustworthy testimonies tabulated. Those "years of healing" to which reference is so often made were years of prayer and years of faith. After deducting all the questionable cases, and after a wide allowance for the naturally health-giving and health-preserving power, the normal human belief is that there remains an overwhelmingly convincing amount of evidence that healing is directly brought about by sincere prayer.
"The White Christmas and Other Merry Christmas Plays" is a collection of Christmas-themed plays written by Walter Ben Hare. Walter Ben Hare (1886-1950) was an American playwright and author known for his works in the early to mid-20th century, primarily in the genre of plays and theatrical productions. The collection likely contains a series of short plays, each designed to be performed during the holiday season. Christmas plays often aim to capture the festive spirit, warmth, and joy associated with the holiday, and Hare's work is likely no exception. The title play, "The White Christmas," and other plays in the collection might feature various characters, settings, and scenarios related to Christmas celebrations. They could involve themes such as family, generosity, love, and the magic of the holiday season. Walter Ben Hare's plays were often written for amateur or community theaters, making them accessible for local productions and holiday festivities. The plays might include a mix of comedy, drama, and heartwarming moments, catering to a wide audience and providing opportunities for community involvement. Collections like "The White Christmas and Other Merry Christmas Plays" are often utilized by drama groups, schools, and community organizations looking for festive and engaging performances during the Christmas season. They contribute to the tradition of celebrating the holidays through the performing arts, bringing people together to share in the joy of the season.
"Knowledge Is Power" is a book written by British publisher and writer Charles Knight. It was first published in 1855. The book is a part of Knight's larger project, "The Library of Entertaining Knowledge," which aimed to make educational and informative literature accessible to a broader audience. "Knowledge Is Power" explores the importance of knowledge and education and advocates for their widespread dissemination. Key features and themes of "Knowledge Is Power" by Charles Knight include: The Value of Education: The book emphasizes the idea that knowledge and education are essential for personal development, societal progress, and empowerment. It argues that education is the key to individual and collective improvement. Accessible Learning: Charles Knight's work was known for its effort to make knowledge accessible to a wider readership. "Knowledge Is Power" aligns with this mission, advocating for the dissemination of information and learning to people from all walks of life. Historical and Scientific Content: The book covers a range of topics, including history, science, and culture. It aims to provide readers with a broad understanding of various subjects. Social Reform: "Knowledge Is Power" promotes the idea that education and the dissemination of knowledge can lead to social reform and the betterment of society. It envisions an educated populace as a force for positive change. The Empowerment of the Common People: One of the central themes is the belief that knowledge empowers the common people, allowing them to participate more actively in civic life and make informed decisions. Charles Knight's "Knowledge Is Power" is part of a broader movement in the 19th century to democratize knowledge and education. It reflects the idea that access to information and learning is crucial for individual and societal progress. While the book may not be as widely read today, it was influential in its time and contributed to the popularization of educational literature.
"The Night Before Christmas," also known as "A Visit from St. Nicholas," is a famous and beloved poem that has become a holiday tradition in many households. It was written by Clement Clarke Moore and was first published anonymously in 1823. The poem is known for its vivid imagery and has played a significant role in shaping the modern-day image of Santa Claus. The poem tells the story of a man who, on the night before Christmas, is awakened by a clatter on the roof. He looks out the window and sees Santa Claus, often described as a plump, jolly, and bearded figure, arriving in a sleigh pulled by reindeer. Santa enters the house by way of the chimney and proceeds to fill the stockings hanging by the fireplace with toys, candy, and other gifts. The poem is famous for its description of Santa Claus, his reindeer, and the magical nature of the Christmas Eve visit. The reindeer are named, including Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donder (sometimes spelled as Donner), and Blitzen, along with the most famous of all, Rudolph, who is not mentioned in the original poem but later became a popular addition to the folklore. The poem concludes with Santa wishing everyone a "Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!" This iconic line has become synonymous with the holiday season and is often recited during Christmas celebrations. "The Night Before Christmas" has been adapted and illustrated in countless ways over the years, making it a cherished and enduring part of Christmas culture. It captures the magic and anticipation of the Christmas season and has been read to children and families for generations.
"Christmas Eve on Lonesome and Other Stories" is a collection of short stories written by John Fox Jr., an American author known for his regional fiction set in the Appalachian region of the United States. The book was first published in 1904 and is celebrated for its vivid portrayal of the people, landscapes, and culture of the Appalachian Mountains. The collection includes a series of stories that capture the essence of life in the rural and often isolated communities of Appalachia during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These stories are characterized by their rustic charm and strong sense of place. Some key elements of the book are: Regional Setting: The stories in this collection are primarily set in the Appalachian Mountains, specifically in Kentucky and Virginia. John Fox Jr. was known for his commitment to portraying the unique culture and hardships of the people living in this region. Character Studies: The characters in these stories are drawn from the lives of mountain people. Fox's writing is known for its character-driven narratives, and the book features a diverse cast of individuals, from resilient pioneers to colorful mountain folk. Themes of Isolation and Hardship: Many of the stories in the collection touch on themes of isolation and the challenges faced by individuals and communities living in remote mountain areas. The harsh realities of life, as well as the strength and resilience of the characters, are recurring themes. Cultural Traditions: Fox's writing captures the traditions, dialect, and way of life of the people in the region, providing readers with a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Appalachia. Emotional Impact: The stories often evoke a strong sense of nostalgia and longing, as well as the power of human connection and the enduring spirit of those who call these mountains home. "Christmas Eve on Lonesome and Other Stories" is a testament to John Fox Jr.'s skill in capturing the authentic atmosphere and distinctive characters of the Appalachian region. His writing is known for its ability to transport readers to this unique cultural landscape and offer a deeper understanding of the challenges and joys experienced by the people who live there. The stories in this collection are rich in detail and emotion, making it a classic work in American regional literature.
Christmas is the most famous holiday of the year, and the word itself evokes images of Santa Claus, Christmas trees, lights, the baby Jesus, and, of course, presents. Instantly, well known Christmas carols ring in your ears, or maybe you even picture nutcrackers or Scrooge and Tiny Tim. Christmas has been popular for centuries, and it only continues to get more popular today, with Christmas season extending months in advance of December 25. And though much has been written of Christmas, its exact origins are still mysterious. Historians are unsure what date Jesus was born on, or whether Christmas Day coincides with previous pagan holidays.
Vivian A. Harris developed more than two hundred new recipes for this edition, tested and tweaked thousands of classic recipes, and updated every section of every chapter to reflect the latest ingredients and techniques available to today's home cooks. Her strategy for revising this edition was the same one Irma and Marion employed: Vet, research, and improve Vivian's coverage of legacy recipes while introducing new dishes, modern cooking techniques, and comprehensive information on ingredients now available at farmers' markets and grocery stores. You will find tried-and-true favorites like Banana Bread Cockaigne, Chocolate Chip Cookies, and Southern Corn Bread-all retested and faithfully improved-as well as new favorites like Chana Masala, Beef Rendang, Megan's Seeded Olive Oil Granola, and Smoked Pork Shoulder. In addition to a thoroughly modernized vegetable chapter, there are many more vegan and vegetarian recipes, including Caramelized Tamarind Tempeh, Crispy Pan-Fried Tofu, Spicy Chickpea Soup, and Roasted Mushroom Burgers. Joy's baking chapters now include gram weights for accuracy, along with a refreshed lineup of baked goods like Cannelés de Bordeaux, Rustic No-Knead Sourdough, Ciabatta, Chocolate-Walnut Babka, and Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza, as well as gluten-free recipes for pizza dough and yeast breads. A new chapter on streamlined cooking explains how to economize time, money, and ingredients and avoid waste. You will learn how to use a diverse array of ingredients, from amaranth to za'atar. New techniques include low-temperature and sous vide cooking, fermentation, and cooking with both traditional and electric pressure cookers. Barbecuing, smoking, and other outdoor cooking methods are covered in even greater detail. This new edition of Vivian is the perfect combination of classic recipes, new dishes, and indispensable reference information for today's home cooks. Whether it is the only cookbook on your shelf or one of many, Vivian is and has been the essential and trusted guide for home cooks for almost a century. This new edition continues that legacy.
Excerpt from The Progress of Ethnology Of the first class of works, it has been sufficiently demonstrated, that a small proportion were intended for works of defence that another portion were sacred places, or in some way connected with religious or superstitious rites, while a third and much the larger number are entirely inexplicable in our present state of information. John Russell Bartlett (October 23, 1805 - May 28, 1886) was an American historian and linguist. In 1831, he was one of the founders of the Providence Athenaeum, and was elected its first treasurer. That year he was also elected to membership in the Rhode Island Historical Society. The following year he was ordering books for the newly founded Providence Franklin Society, an early lyceum. Over the course of his life he became involved with a number of other organizations including the New England Historic Genealogical Society, and being elected a member of the American Antiquarian Society in 1856.
In The Power of Your Subconscious Mind, Dr. Joseph Murphy gives you the tools you will need to unlock the awesome powers of your subconscious mind. You can improve your relationships, your finances, your physical well-being. Once you learn how to use this unbelievably powerful force there is nothing you will not be able to accomplish. Join the millions of people who have already unlocked the power of their subconscious minds. "I urge you to study this book and apply the techniques outlined therein; and as you do, I feel absolutely convinced that you will lay hold of a miracle-working power that will lift you up from confusion, misery, melancholy, and failure, and guide you to your true place, solve your difficulties, sever you from emotional and physical bondage, and place you on the royal road to freedom, happiness, and peace of mind." - Dr. Joseph Murphy The Power of Your Subconscious Mind is one of the most beloved and bestselling inspirational guides of all time!
Many of the lectures printed in this volume have formed the basis of a series given at Teachers College, Columbia University, during the summer sessions of 1914 and 1915, and during the academic year 1914-1915. Others were addressed to parents, to groups of men, to women's clubs, and to conferences on sex-education. In order to avoid extensive repetition, there has been some combination and rearrangement of lectures that originally were addressed to groups of people with widely different outlooks on the sexual problems. Several years ago the late Dr. Prince A. Morrow announced that a volume dealing with many of the timely topics of sex-education was to be prepared by the undersigned with the advice and criticism of a committee of the American Federation for Sex-Hygiene; but even before Dr. Morrow's death it became evident that this plan was impracticable. Three members (Morrow, Balliet, Bigelow) of the original committee collaborated in a report presented at the XV International Congress on Hygiene and Demography. Since that time the writer, working independently, has found it desirable to reorganize completely the original outline announced by Dr. Morrow. In accordance with a declaration made voluntarily in a conversation with Dr. Morrow, the author considers himself pledged to devote all royalties from this book to the movement for sex-education. Among the many persons to whom is due acknowledgment of helpfulness in the preparation of this book, the author is especially indebted for suggestions to the late Dr. Prince A. Morrow, to Dr. William F. Snow, Secretary of the American Social Hygiene Association, and to Dr. Edward L. Keyes, Jr., President of the Society of Sanitary and Moral Prophylaxis; for constructive criticism, to his colleagues, Professor Jean Broadhurst and Miss Caroline E. Stackpole, of Teachers College, who have read carefully both the original lectures and the completed manuscript; and to Olive Crosby Whitin (Mrs. Frederick H. Whitin), executive secretary of the Society of Sanitary and Moral Prophylaxis, who has suggested and criticized helpfully both as a reader of the manuscript and as an auditor of many of the lectures delivered at Teachers College.
The Power of Darkness (1886) is a play by Leo Tolstoy. Forbidden for decades in Tolstoy's native Russia, the five-act play was first staged in Paris, where it earned praise from some of France's leading critics. Noted for its brutal depiction of violence and desperation, the play is concerned with the universal religious and philosophical themes that inspired such masterpieces as War and Peace and Anna Karenina. Peasant life is often portrayed in art as peaceful and romantic, in touch with the rhythms of the natural world and coursing with spirituality. In The Power of Darkness, Tolstoy refuses such empty symbolism, choosing instead to tell a story of greed, murder, and betrayal that has everything to do with the political reality faced by its impoverished characters. Fearful of what will happen to their farm when her aging husband Peter dies, Anisya seduces her farmhand Nikita, whose lack of education and opportunity-as well as a moral emptiness-make him a willing accomplice. Betraying Marinka, a young orphan girl he manipulates for pleasure, Nikita joins Anisya in dispossessing her stubborn husband. Tragic and disturbing, The Power of Darkness is a story of man at war with nature, and therefore at war with himself.
Recently I set myself to put down what I believe. I did this with no idea of making a book, but at the suggestion of a friend and to interest a number of friends with whom I was associated. We were all, we found, extremely uncertain in our outlook upon life, about our religious feelings and in our ideas of right and wrong. And yet we reckoned ourselves people of the educated class and some of us talk and lecture and write with considerable confidence. We thought it would be of very great interest to ourselves and each other if we made some sort of frank mutual confession. We arranged to hold a series of meetings in which first one and then another explained the faith, so far as he understood it, that was in him. We astonished ourselves and our hearers by the irregular and fragmentary nature of the creeds we produced, clotted at one point, inconsecutive at another, inconsistent and unconvincing to a quite unexpected degree. It would not be difficult to caricature one of those meetings; the lecturer floundering about with an air of exquisite illumination, the audience attentive with an expression of thwarted edification upon its various brows. For my own part I grew so interested in planning my lecture and in joining up point and point, that my notes soon outran the possibilities of the hour or so of meeting for which I was preparing them. The meeting got only a few fragments of what I had to say, and made what it could of them. And after that was over I let myself loose from limits of time and length altogether and have expanded these memoranda into a book. It is as it stands now the frank confession of what one man of the early Twentieth Century has found in life and himself, a confession just as frank as the limitations of his character permit; it is his metaphysics, his religion, his moral standards, his uncertainties and the expedients with which he has met them. On every one of these departments and aspects I write-how shall I put it?-as an amateur. In every section of my subject there are men not only of far greater intellectual power and energy than I, but who have devoted their whole lives to the sustained analysis of this or that among the questions I discuss, and there is a literature so enormous in the aggregate that only a specialist scholar could hope to know it. I have not been unmindful of these professors and this literature; I have taken such opportunities as I have found, to test my propositions by them. But I feel that such apology as one makes for amateurishness in this field has a lesser quality of self-condemnation than if one were dealing with narrower, more defined and fact-laden matters. There is more excuse for one here than for the amateur maker of chemical theories, or the man who evolves a system of surgery in his leisure. These things, chemistry, surgery and so forth, we may take on the reputation of an expert, but our own fundamental beliefs, our rules of conduct, we must all make for ourselves. We may listen and read, but the views of others we cannot take on credit; we must rethink them and "make them our own." And we cannot do without fundamental beliefs, explicit or implicit. The bulk of men are obliged to be amateur philosophers,-all men indeed who are not specialized students of philosophical subjects,-even if their philosophical enterprise goes no further than prompt recognition of and submission to Authority.
Some day we shall have a science of education comparable to the science of medicine; but even when that day arrives the art of education will still remain the inspiration and the guide of all wise teachers. The laws that regulate our physical and mental development will be reduced to order; but the impulses which lead each new generation to play its way into possession of all that is best in life will still have to be interpreted for us by the artists who, with the wisdom of years, have not lost the direct vision of children. Some years ago I heard Miss Shedlock tell stories in England. Her fine sense of literary and dramatic values, her power in sympathetic interpretation, always restrained within the limits of the art she was using, and her understanding of educational values, based on a wide experience of teaching, all marked her as an artist in story- telling. She was equally at home in interpreting the subtle blending of wit and wisdom in Daudet, the folk lore philosophy of Grimm, or the deeper world philosophy and poignant human appeal of Hans Christian Andersen. Then she came to America and for two or three years she taught us the difference between the nightingale that sings in the tree tops and the artificial bird that goes with a spring. Cities like New York, Boston, Pittsburgh and Chicago listened and heard, if sometimes indistinctly, the notes of universal appeal, and children saw the Arabian Nights come true. Yielding to the appeals of her friends in America and England, Miss Shedlock has put together in this little book such observations and suggestions on story-telling as can be put in words. Those who have the artist's spirit will find their sense of values quickened by her words, and they will be led to escape some of the errors into which even the greatest artists fall. And even those who tell stories with their minds will find in these papers wise generalizations and suggestions born of wide experience and extended study which well go far towards making even an artificial nightingale's song less mechanical. To those who know, the book is a revelation of the intimate relation between a child's instincts and the finished art of dramatic presentation. To those who do not know it will bring echoes of reality.-Earl Barnes.
In other volumes of this series we have considered the operations of the human mind known as Will, Memory, etc. We now approach the consideration of those mental activities which are concerned with the phenomena of thought-those activities which we generally speak of as the operation of the intellect or reason. Thought-Culture in general will do much for the Imagination, for the very processes employed in the development and cultivation of the various other faculties of the mind will also tend to bring the Imagination into subjection and under control, instead of allowing it to remain the wild, fanciful irresponsible faculty that it is in the majority of cases. Use the faculty of Imagination as a faculty of Thought, instead of a thing of Fancy. Attach it to the Intellect instead of to the Emotions. Harness it up with the other faculties of Thought, and your chariot of Understanding and Attainment will reach the goal far sooner than under the old arrangement. Establish harmony between Intellect and Imagination, and you largely increase the power and achievements of both. William Walker Atkinson was an attorney, merchant, publisher, and author, as well as an American pioneer of the New Thought movement. He is also known to have been the author of the pseudonymous works attributed to Theron Q. Dumont and Yogi Ramacharaka. In the last 30 years of his life he wrote more than 100 books.
This book brings to a close that portion of MASTERY OF SELF, which deals with the art of Success-Magnetism. Acquiring magnetism is a constructive effort. It is a building process. You are rearing a structure. You rise, from the foundation, through successive stories to the culminating peak. The most pleasing, notable structures men build from granite and steel and wood, tower like a Woolworth Building or a Rheims Cathedral-higher and higher, until they finally reach a gold- tipped crown or spire, high in the sunlit sky. And so, in rearing your invisible shrine of personal Success- magnetism, we now come to the topmost peak of the structure. This book gives you the crowning inspirations, tipped and topped with the final "Golden Laws of Magnetism in all Applied Life." Master these lessons in the magnetism of success, and you will go forth upon the highways and by-ways of life, endowed with a kingly confidence in your ability to win a measure of success achieved by few. But remember (should discouragement seek to dog your steps) every great structure requires the process of time. "The giant trees of California were once puny saplings. The slow lapse of time has drawn nature into their mighty hearts." Just as surely as the absorption of natural forces built the giant redwoods, just as surely can you draw upon nature for GIANT POWERS.
How often do we hear women exclaim, "Oh dear, what shall I have for the next meal?" This little book will aid you in answering that troublesome question. The recipes are carefully selected and we hope you will find them helpful. More important to you than the question of food is that of health. You have heard of this splendid medicine, for it has been used by women for nearly fifty years. It is a Woman's Medicine for Women's Ailments. It is prepared from medicinal plants that are especially adapted for the treatment of the troubles women so often have. As you read these letters remember these women are stating for the benefit of other women who are sick just how they felt and just how the Vegetable Compound restored them to health. You know it is bad enough to worry over the various duties of life when you are well and strong. It is a serious matter when you are half sick and all tired out most of the time. So in the following pages you will find suggestions for the next meal that may help you, You will read letters from many classes of women, young and old, mother and daughter. They are genuine expressions of gratitude from one woman to another.
..de Bunsen, de Burgh, and de Butts. But it is time that I returned to our hero, Dr. Wallis Budge. Although Budge is a golfer of world-wide experience, having "conducted excavations in Egypt, the Island of Meroe, Nineveh and Mesopotamia," it is upon his mental rather than his athletic abilities that the author dwells most lovingly. The fact that in 1886 he wrote a pamphlet upon The Coptic History of Elijah the Tishbite, and followed it up in 1888 with one on The Coptic Martyrdom of George of Cappadocia (which is, of course, in every drawing-room) may not seem at first to have much bearing upon the tremendous events which followed later. But the author is artistically right in drawing our attention to them; for it is probable that, had these popular works not been written, our hero would never have been encouraged to proceed with his Magical Texts of Za-Walda-Hawaryat, Tasfa Maryam, Sebhat-Le'ab, Gabra Shelase Tezasu, Aheta-Mikael, which had such a startling effect on the lives of all the other characters, and led indirectly to the finding of the blood-stain on the bath-mat. My own suspicions fell immediately upon Thomas Rooke, of whom we are told nothing more than "R.W.S.," which is obviously the cabbalistic sign of some secret society. One of the author's weaknesses is a certain carelessness in the naming of his characters. For instance, no fewer than two hundred and forty-one of them are called Smith. True, he endeavours to distinguish between them by giving them such different Christian names as John, Henry, Charles, and so forth, but the result is bound to be confusing. Sometimes, indeed, he does not even bother to distinguish between their Christian names. Thus we have three Henry Smiths, who appear to have mixed themselves up even in the author's mind. He tells us that Colonel Henry's chief recreation is "the study of the things around him," but it sounds much more like that of the Reverend Henry, whose opportunities in the pulpit would be..
In this classic account of the Western esoteric path of initiation, Steiner leads the student from the cultivation of reverence and inner tranquility to the development of inner life through the stages of preparation, illumination, and initiation. Practical exercises in inner and outer observation and moral development are described. By patiently and persistently following these suggestions, new "organs" of soul and spirit begin to form, revealing the contours of higher worlds that had been concealed from us. Here, Rudolf Steiner is available as teacher, counselor, and friend. His advice is practical, clear, and powerful. Being deeply interested in Dr. Steiner's work and teachings, and desirous of sharing with my English-speaking friends the many invaluable glimpses of Truth which are to be found therein, I decided upon the translation of the present volume. It is due to the kind co-operation of several friends who prefer to be anonymous that this task has been accomplished, and I wish to express my hearty thanks for the literary assistance rendered by them-also to thank Dr. Peipers of Munich for permission to reproduce his excellent photograph of the author. The special value of this volume consists, I think, in the fact that no advice is given and no statement made which is not based on the personal experience of the author, who is, in the truest sense, both a mystic and an occultist. If the present volume should meet with a reception justifying a further venture, we propose translating and issuing during the coming year a further series of articles by Dr. Steiner in continuation of the same subject, and a third volume will consist of the articles now appearing in the pages of The Theosophist, entitled "The Education of Children." While the pleasant German vernacular is still discernable in the text of this work, we wish to state that it has been Americanized in spelling, phraseology, and definition, to make plainer to the Western mind the wonderful truths experienced by its distinguished author. The readers, especially Occult, Theosophic, Masonic, and New Thought students, we believe, will appreciate the clearness with which his teachings lead to the simple rich Harmony of Life.
The receipts composing the Volume here submitted to the Public have been collected under peculiarly favourable circumstances by a Lady of distinction, whose productions in the lighter department of literature entitle her to a place among the most successful writers of the present day. Moving in the first circles of rank and fashion, her associations have qualified her to furnish directions adapted to the manners and taste of the most refined Luxury; whilst long and attentive observation, and the communications of an extensive acquaintance, have enabled her equally to accommodate them to the use of persons of less ample means and of simpler and more economical habits. The intimate connexion between the Science of Cookery and the Science of Health, the sympathies subsisting between every part of the system and the stomach, and the absolute necessity of strict attention not less to the manner of preparing the alimentary substances offered to that organ than to their quality and quantity, have been of late years so repeatedly and so forcibly urged by professional pens, that there needs no argument here to prove the utility of a safe Guide and Director in so important a department of domestic economy as that which is the subject of this Volume. In many more cases, indeed, than the uninitiated would imagine, is the healthy tone of the stomach dependent on the proper preparation of the food, the healthy tone of the body in general on that of the stomach, and the healthy tone of the mind on that of the body: consequently the first of these conditions ought to command the vigilance and solicitude of all who are desirous of securing the true enjoyment of life-the mens sana in corpore sano.
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