Showing results by author "Tobias Smollett" in All Categories

Tobias Smollett, in his creation of the Scot Roderick Random, exposes the sheer incompetence and injustice of the Royal Navy, as well as the snobbery and hypocrisy prevalent in English middle-class society at the time. Set in the mid-18th century, this picaresque novel follows the life and adventures of Roderick, the eponymous hero who has been shunned by his gentleman father's family on the basis of the lowliness of his mother's family.

Matthew Bramble, a gout-ridden misanthrope, travels Britain with his nephew, niece, spinster sister, and man-servant, the trusty Humphry Clinker. In poor health, Bramble sees the world as one of degeneracy and raucous overcrowding, and will not hesitate to let his companions know his feelings on the matter. Peopled with pimps, drunkards, decadents, and con-men, Humphrey Clinker displays Smollett's ferociously pessimistic view of mankind, and his belief that the luxury of 18th-century English existence was the enemy of sense and sobriety.

Don Quixote, the world's first novel and by far the best-known book in Spanish literature, was originally intended by Cervantes as a satire on traditional popular ballads, yet he also parodied the romances of chivalry. By happy coincidence he produced one of the most entertaining adventure stories of all time and, in Don Quixote and his faithful squire, Sancho Panza, two of the greatest characters in fiction.

This audiobook is narrated by an AI Voice. What if every misfortune were a doorway, and every humiliation another step toward survival? In *The Adventures of Roderick Random*, Tobias Smollett delivers one of the great picaresque novels of the eighteenth century: a fierce, comic, and unsparing...

Written as the letters of the five members of Squire Bramble's household sent as they journey around Britain, The Expedition of Humphry Clinker is a grouchy, very funny examination of how one story varies depending on who's doing the telling. The tale is centered around the arrival of Mr. Clinker into the otherwise uneventful household, who never speaks and does not even enter the novel until a third of the way through.

Embark on a whimsical journey through the delightful misadventures of Peregrine Pickle in this enchanting audiobook collection. Each episode offers a fresh escapade, brimming with humor, wit, and unexpected twists that highlight the charming yet self-absorbed nature of our protagonist. As listeners dive into the world of high society, scandal, and the pursuit of fortune, they will experience a tapestry of narratives that reflect the complexities of human relationships and the folly of ambition. Additionally, the series features captivating standalone tales, including the audacious exploits of ...

Join the whimsical journey of Peregrine Pickle, an egotistical dandy navigating the tumultuous waters of 18th century European society. Written by Scottish author Tobias Smollett and first published in 1751, this picaresque novel is a delightful blend of humor and sharp social commentary, capturing the misfortunes and fortunes of its unforgettable protagonist. Experience the rich tapestry of the era through Smolletts keen observations and vibrant storytelling. (Summary by Wikipedia)

The Tobias Smollett Library presents the novels of Tobias Smollett in full: adventures, misadventures, sharp satire, and lively portraits of a restless 18th-century world. Here are rogues, sailors, travellers, schemers, and fools, all set in motion with uncommon spirit and no small share of ridicule.

Dr. Fathom, a master of deception, navigates a world where truth is as scarce as honor. Born to a soldier’s harlot and wrapped in a shroud of mystery, his life unfolds like a grand tapestry of adventures filled with charm, betrayal, and relentless ambition. As he forges his identity through cunning and charisma, he finds himself embroiled in schemes that test his wit and resilience. From the opulent salons of the elite to the gritty underbelly of society, Fathom's journey is a thrilling exploration of identity and the lengths one will go to achieve greatness. In 'Adventures of Ferdinand ...

Dieser mit Szenen britischen Humors geradezu gespickte Schelmenroman weist eine Besonderheit auf. Während in der Regel die Hauptfigur eines Romans, der „Held", nach kurzer Zeit die Sympathie des Lesers oder Hörers auf sich zieht, zeigt sich hier Peregrine Pickle schon als Kind als zwar hochbegabt, aber charakterlich problematisch. Der Autor selbst distanziert sich von seiner Figur an vielen Stellen ausdrücklich.

The Adventures of Roderick Random is a picaresque novel by Tobias Smollett, first published in 1748. It is partially based on Smollett's experience as a naval-surgeon’s mate in the Royal Navy, especially during the Battle of Cartagena de Indias in 1741.

Die Mutter des Protagonisten hat während der Schwangerschaft einen Traum. Sie "kam mit einem Tennisball nieder, und der Teufel, der zu ihrem äußersten Entsetzen Hebammenstelle vertrat, schlug denselben so heftig mit einem Tennisschläger, dass sie ihn augenblicklich aus dem Gesichte verlor. Über diesen Verlust ihrer Erstgeburt war sie eine Zeitlang untröstlich; endlich kehrte der Ball mit der Heftigkeit wieder zu ihr zurück, mit welcher er verschwunden war, und fuhr unter ihren Füßen in die Erde. Unmittelbar darauf schoss ein schöner Baum voller Blüten auf, deren Geruch auf ihre Nerven so mächtig wirkte, dass sie erwachte."

Considerada una de las novelas más importantes del siglo XVIII de Inglaterra, Las aventuras de Roderick Random lanzó a la fama a Tobias Smollett, médico, marino y aspirante a escritor que había vivido experiencias extraordinarias antes de cumplir treinta años, entre ellas la expedición británica contra Cartagena de Indias, el ejercicio de la medicina en Jamaica y sus primeros intentos como dramaturgo. De éxito inmediato tras su publicación, esta novela sigue a Roderick Random, un joven escocés nacido en circunstancias difíciles: su madre muere poco después de dar a luz y su ...

You can call me Dr. Fathom or Count Fathom, but the truth is, I’m not who I claim to be. With a mother who was a soldiers harlot, scavenging the battlefield for valuables, and an unknown father, I learned early that honesty doesn’t always bring reward. Instead, charm and a well-timed lie opened doors. My path led me to a wealthy Hungarian count, who unwittingly made me a mentor to his naïve son, Renaldo. Oh, how I envied Renaldo’s fortune, his exquisite life, and his beautiful wife—if only for a fleeting conquest. This tale unfolds my schemes and desires, revealing how easily people ...

Dive into The Expedition of Humphry Clinker, the final picaresque masterpiece by Tobias Smollett, often hailed as his most humorous and brilliant work. First published in London on June 17, 1771, this epistolary novel unfolds through a series of letters penned by six distinct characters the cantankerous Welsh Squire Matthew Bramble, his spirited sister Tabitha, their charming niece and nephew Jery and Lydia Melford, Tabithas witty maid Winifred Jenkins, and Lydias earnest suitor Wilson. The humor shines as each character presents wildly different accounts of the same events, revealing their ...

Join Sir Launcelot Greaves on his whimsical journey across the country, accompanied by his comedic squire, as they strive to embody the ideals of knighthood and perform noble deeds. Written in the charming style reminiscent of Don Quixote, this novel by the author of The Expedition of Humphry Clinker and other 18th-century picaresque tales is a delightful read for anyone who appreciates sharp satire and clever humor. - Summary by Stav Nisser.

Embark on a captivating journey through the trials and tribulations of life as seen through the eyes of Roderick Random. This podcast delves into the adventures of an intrepid young man navigating the complexities of orphanhood, societal expectations, and the often harsh realities of 18th-century England. Each episode features a new complete audiobook that captures the essence of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness amidst adversity. From encounters with roguish highwaymen to the intrigues of fashionable society, listeners are invited to explore the rich tapestry of human ...