O Mandarim by Eça de Queirós

Set in the late 19th century, this novel explores the moral dilemmas faced by Teodoro, a lowly civil servant in Lisbon, who is suddenly presented with a fantastical opportunity to gain immense wealth. Upon discovering that the death of a wealthy Mandarin in China would result in his inheritance of a vast fortune, Teodoro grapples with the ethical implications of such an act. The narrative delves into themes of greed, guilt, and the human conscience, as Teodoro's life becomes increasingly complicated by his newfound riches and the haunting consequences of his decision.

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