A Fair Penitent: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
A Fair Penitent: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
A Fair Penitent is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Collins, Wilkie (1824–1889).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"A Fair Penitent" by Wilkie Collins is a novella that first appeared in Charles Dickens' magazine, "Household Words," in the mid-19th century, specifically in 1857. It belongs to the genre of literary fiction and explores themes of redemption, morality, and the complexities of human nature. Set against the backdrop of 18th century France, it tells the story of a woman's journey from a life of pleasure as an actress to a devoted life as a Carmelite nun. The narrative centers around Mademoiselle Gautier, whose life experiences shape her profound conversion. Initially known for her beauty, talent, and tumultuous relationships with various influential men, Gautier's heart becomes particularly entangled with an actor named Quinault Dufresne. However, after experiencing heartbreak and disillusionment, she seeks change and retreats from her former life. Through her reflections and spiritual struggles, she documents her transformation, highlighting her deep emotional turmoil and her sincere pursuit of penitence and connection with God. Despite societal pressures and conflicts with her past—symbolized through rituals of flagellation and her decision to enter the convent—Gautier ultimately embraces a life of humility, service, and a steadfast commitment to her newfound faith.
Book and edition facts
- Title: A Fair Penitent
- Author credits: Collins, Wilkie (1824–1889)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Conversion -- Fiction
- English fiction
- Nuns -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: British Literature
- Category: Novels
- Category: Religion/Spirituality
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View the complete Gutenberg catalogue record. Project Gutenberg identifies this edition as public domain in the United States; that designation does not establish its copyright status in every country.
Source notes
Catalogue metadata is public domain and is supplied through Gutendex, which imports Gutenberg's machine-readable catalogue. The automated synopsis is source-supplied, not an independently verified review. Author dates above describe the credited people; no ebook release date is presented as the book's original publication date.
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