Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.
Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Harris, Joel Chandler (1848–1908).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories" by Joel Chandler Harris is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. The work explores themes of Southern life, social dynamics, and the complex relationships between masters and their slaves, often reflecting a mix of irony and profound insight into human nature. Central to the opening sketch is the character Berrien Cozart, a rebellious young man whose tumultuous journey is intertwined with that of Balaam, his devoted slave. The opening of the book introduces the townsfolk of Billville, Georgia, describing how the settlement came to be named and focusing on the Cozart family. Berrien, spoiled and beautiful but unruly, grows up in a close bond with Balaam, who serves as both caretaker and confidant. Their relationship is depicted against a backdrop of social expectations and familial pressures, illustrating the internal struggles Berrien faces as he navigates his reckless tendencies. As the narrative progresses, it hints at Berrien's eventual downfall and the critical moments that define his character, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the choices that lead to his fate.
Book and edition facts
- Title: Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories
- Author credits: Harris, Joel Chandler (1848–1908)
- Catalogue language: English
Catalogue subjects
- Short stories, American
- United States -- Social life and customs -- 19th century -- Fiction
Gutenberg collections
- Category: American Literature
- Category: Short Stories
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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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