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Classic Literature

Vanitas: Polite Stories: Classic Book Guide and Free Edition

Vanitas: Polite Stories: 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

Vanitas: Polite Stories is catalogued by Project Gutenberg with author credits for Lee, Vernon (1856–1935).

Catalogue synopsis

Project Gutenberg supplies this automated synopsis of the opening text:

"Vanitas: Polite Stories" by Vernon Lee is a collection of short stories written in the late 19th century. The work features a series of narratives that delve into the lives of frivolous women, intertwining significant themes around the societal expectations and deeper moral complexities that underlie their seemingly trivial existences. The initial story introduces characters such as Jervase Marion and Lady Atalanta, setting the stage for explorations of their relationships and the intricacies of their lives within a luxurious yet superficial social milieu. The opening of the collection provides a glimpse into an elegant Venetian setting filled with social gatherings and artistic discussions. Jervase Marion, a psychological novelist, finds himself surrounded by a cast of colorful characters, including the enigmatic Lady Tal, who navigates the complexities of her widowhood and societal pressures. As Marion observes and interacts with Lady Tal and her circle, he grapples with his fascination for her character while reflecting on the deeper emotions and motivations beneath the societal facades. The narrative's rich descriptions and nuanced character dynamics hint at a gripping exploration of themes such as identity, duty, and the challenges of genuine emotional connection amidst a backdrop of performative elegance.

Book and edition facts

  • Title: Vanitas: Polite Stories
  • Author credits: Lee, Vernon (1856–1935)
  • Catalogue language: English

Catalogue subjects

  • English fiction

Gutenberg collections

  • Category: British Literature
  • Category: Short Stories

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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