The Confidence-Man

Enriched edition. A Satirical Mississippi Steamboat Allegory of Trust, Identity, and Deception in Pre–Civil War AmericaBy Herman Melville

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Length10h 38m

About this audiobook

In "The Confidence-Man," Herman Melville explores the themes of identity, trust, and deception within the framework of a philosophical narrative set on a Mississippi River steamboat. Written in 1857, this novel employs a satirical tone and fragmented style, incorporating dialogues and encounters that reflect the socio-economic uncertainties of pre-Civil War America. The characters, predominantly disguised swindlers, embody various facets of human nature, challenging readers to discern authenticity in a world rife with impostures. Melville's exploration of confidence as currency parallels the emergent capitalist ethos, probing the moral landscape of an era teetering on the brink of transformation. Herman Melville, renowned for his later masterpiece "Moby-Dick," delves into psychological intricacies through this earlier work, influenced by his experiences at sea and encounters with diverse cultures and customs. The philosophical underpinnings of his narratives often compelled him to question societal norms, making "The Confidence-Man" a critical lens on American individualism and morality. Melville's own struggles with public perception and artistic integrity resonate through the duplicitous interactions of his characters. Readers seeking a profound examination of human nature amidst social critique will find "The Confidence-Man" both engaging and thought-provoking. The blend of humor and social commentary invites reflection on the nature of trust and self-deception in relationships. This novel not only enriches the understanding of Melville's oeuvre but also stands as a crucial text in American literature that echoes the perennial conflicts between idealism and reality. In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience: - A succinct Introduction situates the work's timeless appeal and themes. - The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists. - A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the era's events and influences that shaped the writing. - An Author Biography reveals milestones in the author's life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text. - A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings. - Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the work's messages, connecting them to modern life. - Hand‐picked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance. - Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

Hidden Identity Satire Mystery Psychological Identity Journey

Audiobook details

Rating★★★★ 3.6 (12.6K)

Includes Goodreads, LibraryThing, StoryGraph, Amazon

GenreLiterary Classics, Humor

Length10 hrs 38 mins

Narrated byListen with 1,000+ voices

FormateBook with Audio

Publish dateNov 13, 2022

LanguageEnglish

1Chapter 1. A mute goes aboard a boat on the Mississippi

2Chapter 2. Showing that many men have many minds

3Chapter 3. In which a variety of characters appear

4Chapter 4. Renewal of old acquaintance

5Chapter 5. The man with the weed makes it an even question whether he be a great sage or a great simpleton

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6Chapter 6. At the outset of which certain passengers prove deaf to the call of charity

7Chapter 7. A gentleman with gold sleeve-buttons

8Chapter 8. A charitable lady

9Chapter 9. Two business men transact a little business

10Chapter 10. In the cabin

11Chapter 11. Only a page or so

12Chapter 12. The story of the unfortunate man, from which may be gathered whether or no he has been justly so entitled

13Chapter 13. The man with the traveling-cap evinces much humanity, and in a way which would seem to show him to be one of the most logical of optimists

14Chapter 14. Worth the consideration of those to whom it may prove worth considering

15Chapter 15. An old miser, upon suitable representations, is prevailed upon to venture an investment

16Chapter 16. A sick man, after some impatience, is induced to become a patient

17Chapter 17. Towards the end of which the Herb-Doctor proves himself a forgiver of injuries

18Chapter 18. Inquest into the true character of the Herb-Doctor

19Chapter 19. A soldier of fortune

20Chapter 20. Reappearance of one who may be remembered

21Chapter 21. A hard case

22Chapter 22. In the polite spirit of the Tusculan disputations

23Chapter 23. In which the powerful effect of natural scenery is evinced in the case of the Missourian, who, in view of the region round about Cairo, has a return of his chilly fit

24Chapter 24. A philanthropist undertakes to convert a misanthrope, but does not get beyond confuting him

25Chapter 25. The Cosmopolitan makes an acquaintance

26Chapter 26. Containing the metaphysics of Indian-hating, according to the views of one evidently not so prepossessed as Rousseau in favor of savages

27Chapter 27. Some account of a man of questionable morality, but who, nevertheless, would seem entitled to the esteem of that eminent English moralist who said he liked a good hater

28Chapter 28. Moot points touching the late Colonel John Moredock

29Chapter 29. The boon companions

30Chapter 30. Opening with a poetical eulogy of the Press and continuing with talk inspired by the same

31Chapter 31. A metamorphosis more surprising than any in Ovid

32Chapter 32. Showing that the age of music and magicians is not yet over

33Chapter 33. Which may pass for whatever it may prove to be worth

34Chapter 34. In which the Cosmopolitan tells the story of the gentleman-madman

35Chapter 35. In which the Cosmopolitan strikingly evinces the artlessness of his nature

36Chapter 36. In which the Cosmopolitan is accosted by a mystic, whereupon ensues pretty much such talk as might be expected

37Chapter 37. The mystical master introduces the practical disciple

38Chapter 38. The disciple unbends, and consents to act a social part

39Chapter 39. The hypothetical friends

40Chapter 40. In which the story of China Aster is, at second-hand, told by one who, while not disapproving the moral, disclaims the spirit of the style

41Chapter 41. Ending with a rupture of the hypothesis

42Chapter 42. Upon the heel of the last scene, the Cosmopolitan enters the barber&#x27;s shop, a benediction on his lips

43Chapter 43. Very charming

44Chapter 44. In which the last three words of the last chapter are made the text of the discourse, which will be sure of receiving more or less attention from those readers who do not skip it

45Chapter 45. The Cosmopolitan increases in seriousness