A Modern Mephistopheles, and A Whisper in the Dark: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
A Modern Mephistopheles, and A Whisper in the Dark: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

A Modern Mephistopheles, and A Whisper in the Dark is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Alcott, Louisa May (1832–1888).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"A Modern Mephistopheles, and A Whisper in the Dark" by Louisa May Alcott is a novel written in the late 19th century. The book delves into the struggles of its main characters, Felix Canaris, a young man grappling with despair and hopelessness, and Jasper Helwyze, a mysterious benefactor. Their relationship appears complex, with elements of mentorship, power dynamics, and the exploration of artistic ambition against a backdrop of personal turmoil. The beginning of the novel sets a somber tone, beginning with a desolate scene of a cold garret where Felix Canaris contemplates his despair as he burns his manuscripts—a symbol of his failed dreams. The introduction of Jasper Helwyze shifts the narrative; he interrupts Canaris's dark resolve and offers him a chance at redemption through work and mentorship. As Canaris accepts Helwyze's offer, it becomes clear that their relationship will intertwine ambition and dependency. The mood subtly shifts from despair to an uncertain hope as Canaris embarks on a new chapter, influenced by the enigmatic figure of Helwyze, whose intentions feel both alluring and dangerous.
Book and edition facts
- Title: A Modern Mephistopheles, and A Whisper in the Dark
- Author credits: Alcott, Louisa May (1832–1888)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- American fiction -- 19th century
- Control (Psychology) -- Fiction
- Man-woman relationships -- Fiction
- Manipulative behavior -- Fiction
- Psychological fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: American Literature
- Category: Novels
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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.



