Bolesław Prus
Bolesław Prus was a prominent Polish writer, journalist, and novelist. He is best known for his novels 'The Doll' and 'Pharaoh', which are considered masterpieces of Polish literature.
Books
This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.
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1. Pharaoh
The Novel of Ancient Egypt
"Pharaoh" is a historical novel set in ancient Egypt, during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses XIII. The story is a complex and compelling tale of court intrigue, power struggles, and the inevitable clash between church and state. The young Pharaoh, Ramses XIII, is pitted against the powerful and entrenched priesthood and the corrupt and decaying Egyptian nobility. The novel explores themes of power, corruption, and the human condition, while providing a detailed and accurate portrayal of ancient Egyptian culture and society.
The 1758th Greatest Book of All Time -
2. The Doll
Set in late 19th-century Warsaw, the novel explores the complexities of Polish society through the life of Stanisław Wokulski, a successful businessman who is torn between his ambition and his unrequited love for the aristocratic Izabela Łęcka. As Wokulski navigates the social and economic challenges of his time, the story delves into themes of class struggle, romantic idealism, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. The narrative intricately weaves together the personal and the political, offering a rich portrayal of a society on the brink of change.
The 8668th Greatest Book of All Time -
3. Katarynka
The story revolves around a reclusive, elderly lawyer whose life is transformed by the presence of a young, blind girl living in his building. Initially indifferent to the world around him, the lawyer becomes captivated by the girl's innocence and resilience, leading him to rediscover compassion and empathy. The girl's joy in simple pleasures, particularly her love for music played on a street organ, inspires the lawyer to take action to improve her life. Through this connection, the narrative explores themes of human kindness, the impact of small gestures, and the transformative power of empathy.
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4. Kamizelka
The story revolves around a married couple facing financial difficulties and the husband's declining health. As the husband becomes increasingly ill, the wife secretly adjusts his waistcoat to give the illusion that he is not losing weight, hoping to lift his spirits. This small act of love and deception highlights the couple's deep affection for each other amidst their struggles. The narrative poignantly explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the human tendency to find hope in small gestures, even in the face of inevitable loss.