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Classic Literature

In Vain: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition

In Vain: 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

In Vain is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Sienkiewicz, Henryk (1846–1916). The listed translation credits are Curtin, Jeremiah (1835–1906).

Catalogue synopsis

Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:

"In Vain" by Henryk Sienkiewicz is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around the experiences of a young Jewish student named Yosef Shvarts as he navigates university life in Kieff, where ambition, friendships, love, and sacrifice intertwine in his quest for knowledge. Central to the narrative is the character of Helena, a widow with a tragic past, whose presence profoundly affects both Yosef and his friend Gustav. The opening of "In Vain" introduces Yosef as he arrives in Kieff, filled with excitement and idealism about the vast world of knowledge awaiting him at the university. He soon reconnects with his friend Gustav, who reveals the harsh realities of student life and the challenges they face, including poverty and emotional turmoil. As the narrative unfolds, existential themes emerge, particularly through Gustav's relationship with the widow, Helena. The complexity of their feelings lays the groundwork for future conflict and character development, foreshadowing the struggles of love and sacrifice that will unfold throughout the novel.

Book and edition facts

  • Title: In Vain
  • Author credits: Sienkiewicz, Henryk (1846–1916)
  • Catalogue language: English
  • Translator credits: Curtin, Jeremiah (1835–1906)

Catalogue subjects

  • Polish fiction -- Translations into English

Gutenberg collections

  • Category: Novels
  • Nobel Prizes in Literature

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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