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Classic Literature

A Foregone Conclusion: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition

A Foregone Conclusion: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

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AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject
AI-generated editorial illustration — not a photograph of the subject

A Foregone Conclusion is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Howells, William Dean (1837–1920).

Catalogue synopsis

Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:

"A Foregone Conclusion" by William Dean Howells is a novel written during the late 19th century. This literary work delves into themes of aspiration, misunderstanding, and the intersections between personal ambition and societal expectation through the character of Don Ippolito, a priest and inventor who seeks recognition and opportunity in Venice amid his numerous inventions. At the start of the novel, we meet Don Ippolito as he navigates the streets of Venice, reflecting his anxious disposition while visiting the American consulate. He seeks assistance from Mr. Ferris, a consul who views him with suspicion, particularly after learning that Don Ippolito is an Austrian subject attempting to secure a passport to America. In his earnestness, he presents a unique weapon he believes could aid the Union Army, but faces rejection and skepticism. The opening chapters provide insight into both characters—how they represent broader themes of cultural misunderstanding and idealism versus practicality, particularly as Don Ippolito exudes hope interlaced with disappointment in his aspirations for invention and acceptance.

Book and edition facts

  • Title: A Foregone Conclusion
  • Author credits: Howells, William Dean (1837–1920)
  • Catalogue language: English

Catalogue subjects

  • Venice (Italy) -- Fiction

Gutenberg collections

  • Category: American Literature
  • Category: Novels

Read this edition

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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