The outcast: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition
The outcast: author and translator credits, catalogue synopsis, subjects and links to the Gutenberg reading formats.

The outcast is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Lagerlöf, Selma (1858–1940). The listed translation credits are Worster, W. J. Alexander (William John Alexander) (1882–1929).
Catalogue synopsis
Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:
"The Outcast" by Selma Lagerlöf is a novel written in the early 20th century. Set on the island of Grimön off the western coast of Sweden, the story revolves around the strained relationship of a couple, Joel and Mor Elversson, who are grappling with their past decisions and the fate of their son, Sven. The narrative explores themes of abandonment, societal judgment, and the complexities of familial love, particularly focusing on Sven, who has returned home under fraught circumstances. The opening of the story introduces Joel and Mor Elversson, whose contrasting personalities are highlighted during a seemingly mundane conversation about mundane matters. As they discuss their son, Sven, who they gave away to a wealthy couple years ago, the reader senses the tension and regret underlying their dialogue. Mor is particularly troubled by the choices they made, especially after learning of Sven's troubled return from abroad following a disastrous Arctic expedition. The couple's exchange hints at the emotional turmoil each feels regarding societal rejection and the haunting memories of their son, setting a somber tone for the unfolding of Sven's troubled past and his longing for acceptance.
Book and edition facts
- Title: The outcast
- Author credits: Lagerlöf, Selma (1858–1940)
- Catalogue language: English
- Translator credits: Worster, W. J. Alexander (William John Alexander) (1882–1929)
Catalogue subjects
- Swedish fiction -- Translations into English
Gutenberg collections
- Category: Novels
- Nobel Prizes in Literature
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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.


