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Public-domain books — and room for your own
Sara Crewe; Or, What Happened at Miss Minchin's Boarding School
"Sara Crewe; Or, What Happened at Miss Minchin's Boarding School" by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a novel written during the late 19th century, falling within the Victorian era. The story explores themes of resilience, social class, and imagination as it follows a young girl named Sara Crewe who faces the harsh realities of life at a boarding school after losing her father and her fortune. The novel presents a critique of social injustice while highlighting Sara's indomitable spirit and her ability to maintain her identity and kindness despite her circumstances. The narrative centers on Sara Crewe, a bright and imaginative girl raised in India by her father, a wealthy captain. After her father passes away and her fortune is lost, Sara is forced to live in the attic of Miss Minchin's boarding school, where she is mistreated and reduced from a favored pupil to a servant. Despite her struggles, Sara maintains her grace and optimism through her vivid imagination, often envisioning herself as a princess.
The Secret Sharer
"The Secret Sharer" by Joseph Conrad is a short story written in 1909. A young captain, commanding his first ship, discovers a fugitive clinging to his vessel at night—a first mate who has killed a crew member and escaped arrest. Recognizing the stranger as his mirror image in appearance and background, the captain hides him aboard, risking his command and credibility. As authorities search and his crew grows suspicious, he must execute a dangerous maneuver to help his double escape while proving himself as captain. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Paradise Regained
"Paradise Regained" by John Milton is an epic poem first published in 1671. This brief epic depicts Christ's forty days in the wilderness, where Satan attempts to break his resolve through increasingly sophisticated temptations. Unlike Milton's ornate "Paradise Lost," this work employs a plainer style to chronicle Christ's spiritual battle. Through offers of food, wealth, power, and ancient wisdom, Satan tests the fasting Jesus, who responds with scripture and steadfast refusal. The poem explores themes of reversal and hunger—both literal and spiritual—as Christ resists temptation to regain what humanity lost in Eden. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Augsburg Confession The confession of faith, which was submitted to His Imperial Majesty Charles V at the diet of Augsburg in the year 1530
"The Augsburg Confession" by Philipp Melanchthon is a confession of faith presented in 1530. Written in both German and Latin, this foundational document of the Lutheran Church was presented at the Diet of Augsburg to Emperor Charles V, who sought to restore religious unity in the Holy Roman Empire. The confession contains twenty-eight articles outlining Lutheran beliefs and addressing perceived abuses in the Catholic Church. Its public reading marked a defining moment in the Protestant Reformation, establishing the theological principles that would shape Lutheran Christianity. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Smalcald Articles
"The Smalcald Articles" by Martin Luther is a summary of Lutheran doctrine written in 1537 for a meeting of the Schmalkaldic League. Commissioned to prepare for an intended church council, Luther outlined what he considered Christianity's most significant teachings. Though not adopted at the 1537 meeting due to concerns about divisiveness, Luther valued the Articles so highly he included them in his will. The text eventually became a confessional document in the Book of Concord in 1580. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
A Dome of Many-Coloured Glass
"A Dome of Many-Coloured Glass" by Amy Lowell is a collection of lyrical poetry written in the early 20th century. This anthology showcases a range of poetic forms including sonnets and verses for children, reflecting on themes such as nature, love, and the human experience. The book is characterized by its rich imagery, emotional depth, and intricate musicality, typical of the modernist movement in literature. The collection consists of various poems that express Lowell's personal reflections and observations about life, nature, and art. Through vivid metaphors and delicate language, she explores emotions ranging from joy and wonder to sorrow and longing. The poems often evoke a sense of intimate beauty, whether it’s a nostalgic recollection of childhood or an appreciation of a fleeting moment in nature. Notable pieces such as “Before the Altar” and “The Green Bowl” highlight Lowell's ability to convey profound feelings and thoughts, inviting readers to engage with the beauty of both the natural world and the human condition. Overall, this collection offers a deeply engaging experience for anyone interested in poetic expression and emotional resonance.
窦娥冤
窦娥被诬杀人,临刑发下三桩誓愿。关汉卿的杂剧,四折一楔子。
六祖坛经
记禅宗六祖惠能的生平和说法,是唯一一部被称作「经」的中国僧人著作。敦煌本、宗宝本等版本差别不小,这里收的是通行的宗宝本。
穆天子传
周穆王西行的行程记,西晋时从战国墓里出土。按日记体写,记里程、赠礼,以及会见西王母。
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow
"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by Washington Irving is a short story written in 1820. Set in 1790 in a secluded glen near Tarrytown, it follows Ichabod Crane, a superstitious schoolmaster who competes with local rowdy Brom Bones for the affections of wealthy Katrina Van Tassel. After a harvest party filled with ghost stories about a Headless Horseman, Ichabod encounters a terrifying cloaked rider on his journey home. The next morning, he has vanished, leaving only mysterious clues behind. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
"The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam" by Omar Khayyam is a translation published in 1859 by Edward FitzGerald, rendering Persian quatrains into English. Initially a commercial failure, the work became wildly popular throughout the English-speaking world by the 1880s, inspiring clubs and a "fin de siècle cult." The poems spark enduring debate: Are they expressions of religious skepticism and Epicurean philosophy, or mystical Sufi verses misunderstood by their translator? The authenticity of the quatrains themselves remains deeply uncertain. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Communist Manifesto
"The Communist Manifesto" by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels is a political pamphlet published in 1848. Commissioned by the Communist League, it presents the theory that all history is shaped by class struggle. The authors analyze how capitalism creates conflict between the working class and those who own the means of production. They predict capitalism will destroy itself through internal contradictions, leading to revolution and a classless society. The manifesto outlines transitional policies and ends with its famous call for working-class solidarity across all nations. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
了凡四训
袁黄写给儿子的四篇家训,讲他自己怎么从「命已经定了」转向「命可以改」。后世当劝善书流传。
On the Duty of Civil Disobedience
"On the Duty of Civil Disobedience" by Henry David Thoreau is an essay first published in 1849. Thoreau argues that individuals must follow their conscience over unjust laws, challenging the idea that citizens should passively obey government authority. Motivated by his opposition to slavery and the Mexican-American War, he contends that governments often enable injustice rather than prevent it. The essay became a foundational text for nonviolent resistance, profoundly influencing activists like Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. in their struggles for justice and social change. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
孙子兵法
十三篇,六千字左右。讲的是打仗之前怎么算 —— 什么时候不该打、怎么让对方不能打,不是一本阵法手册。
A Child's Garden of Verses
"A Child's Garden of Verses" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a collection of 64 poems published in 1885. Written from a child's perspective, these verses capture the wonder and imagination of childhood through the eyes of young speakers. The Scottish author dedicated this influential work to his childhood nurse, Alison Cunningham. The collection has been reprinted countless times in illustrated editions and widely imitated, establishing itself as one of the most significant children's literary works of the 19th century. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Collected Articles of Frederick Douglass
"Collected Articles of Frederick Douglass" by Frederick Douglass is a collection of historical writings and narratives that delve into the author's experiences and reflections on slavery, freedom, and Reconstruction during the mid to late 19th century. The book includes significant pieces, such as "My Escape from Slavery," which recounts Douglass's daring flight to freedom, and his thoughts on the Reconstruction period in the United States following the Civil War. This collection provides a crucial insight into the struggles for civil rights and the fight against the societal and political ramifications of slavery. In "My Escape from Slavery," Douglass shares the intricate details of his escape from Maryland to freedom, describing the fears and dangers he faced, including the constant threat of recapture. He highlights the aid of safe individuals and his clever use of disguises to evade detection. Following this account, the article "Reconstruction" discusses the pressing issues of post-war America, emphasizing the importance of rebuilding the nation on principles of equality and justice.
Main Street, and Other Poems
"Main Street, and Other Poems by Joyce Kilmer" is a collection of poetry written in the early 20th century. The volume reflects the sentiments and aesthetics of wartime and the everyday experiences of life, showcasing themes such as nature, love, community, and the impacts of war. Kilmer's work often intertwines personal emotions with broader human experiences, presenting a poignant exploration of existence through a lyrical lens. The collection includes a variety of poems that express nostalgia for simpler times, appreciation for nature, and reflections on love and loss. The titular poem "Main Street" evokes a sense of familiarity and comfort through vivid imagery of a small-town street in different seasons, contrasting it with the coldness of busy city life. Other poems, like "In Memory" and "Easter Week," delve into deeper themes, touching on grief and the enduring spirit of humanity amidst adversity. Kilmer's work is characterized by its emotional depth and rhythmic beauty, making it a thoughtful read for anyone interested in the interplay of personal experience and collective memory during a tumultuous era. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Renascence, and Other Poems
"Renascence, and Other Poems" by Edna St. Vincent Millay is a collection of poetry crafted in the early 20th century. This anthology showcases Millay's exploration of themes such as love, loss, nature, and the human condition, reflecting her unique voice and emotional depth. The title poem, "Renascence," stands out for its profound meditation on existence and the interconnectedness of all life. The collection includes a variety of poems that delve into the spectrum of human experiences. "Renascence" recounts a personal awakening to the vastness of the universe, igniting the tension between individuality and collective suffering. In "Interim," Millay captures the emptiness following a loved one's departure, while "The Suicide" expresses a visceral confrontation with life's struggles. Other poems, like "God's World" and "Afternoon on a Hill," celebrate the beauty of nature, contrasting with the sorrow found in "Ashes of Life." Overall, Millay's poetry is characterized by its lyrical beauty, poignant emotion, and insightful reflections on the complexities of love and existence. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
An Open Letter on Translating
"An Open Letter on Translating" by Martin Luther is a theological treatise written in the early 16th century, during the period of the Reformation. The book serves as a defense of Luther's translations of the Bible into German, primarily taking aim at critiques from Catholic authorities regarding his interpretations of scripture. The text discusses the challenges and responsibilities of translating sacred texts, especially when addressing contentious theological issues such as justification by faith alone. In the letter, Luther responds to a friend’s inquiries about his translation choices, particularly the inclusion of the word "sola" (alone) in his version of Romans 3:28, arguing that faith alone is central to Christian salvation and necessary to convey the meaning intended by St. Paul. He emphasizes the importance of using accessible language that resonates with common speakers of German rather than relying solely on literal translations from Greek or Latin, which may be unclear or misleading.
Trees, and Other Poems
"Trees, and Other Poems by Joyce Kilmer" is a collection of poems written in the early 20th century. This anthology showcases Kilmer's appreciation for nature, spirituality, and the human experience, reflecting on both beauty and melancholy in life. The poems often celebrate the simplicity of everyday moments while also engaging with deeper philosophical themes. The collection includes notable pieces like "Trees," which famously extols the virtues of nature through the metaphor of a tree, portraying it as a divine creation. Other poems explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, often imbued with a sense of longing and appreciation for the transient beauty of life. Kilmer's work blends personal reflection with universal themes, providing readers with a lyrical exploration of both the inner and outer worlds. Throughout the book, there is a palpable reverence for the natural world and an exploration of the poet's place within it, making the collection resonate with those seeking both beauty and meaning in poetry. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
道德经
五千余字,八十一章,讲道与德。韵散相间,句子短。传世本、帛书本、竹简本的章序和字句都有出入,这里收的是通行本一路的汇校本。
Father Damien: An Open Letter to the Reverend Dr. Hyde of Honolulu
"Father Damien: An Open Letter to the Reverend Dr. Hyde of Honolulu" by Robert Louis Stevenson is a critical and passionate defense written in the late 19th century, reflecting the Victorian era's perspectives on morality and heroism. The book serves as an open letter in response to Reverend Dr. Hyde's disparaging comments about Father Damien, a missionary who dedicated his life to caring for leprosy patients on Molokai. The likely topic of the book centers around the defense of Damien's character and actions in light of the injustices and misrepresentations made by his detractors. In this open letter, Stevenson confronts Reverend Dr. Hyde's unjust criticisms of Father Damien with fervor and eloquence. He dissects Hyde's letter, which claims Damien was a "coarse, dirty man" who sought personal glory rather than altruistic motives. Stevenson refutes these claims by highlighting Damien's selfless commitment to the lepers, describing his sacrifices and the gratitude he earned from those he served. Throughout the letter, Stevenson captures the essence of Damien's humanity, portraying him as a flawed but noble figure whose contributions to society transcend the criticisms he faced.
朝花夕拾
鲁迅回忆童年和留学的十篇散文。百草园、藤野先生、长妈妈和那本《山海经》都在这里。
The Hunting of the Snark: An Agony in Eight Fits
"The Hunting of the Snark: An Agony in Eight Fits" by Lewis Carroll is a nonsense poem written between 1874 and 1876. A crew of ten peculiar characters embarks on an absurd quest to hunt the mysterious Snark, guided only by a blank map. Their journey becomes increasingly strange as they encounter fantastical creatures and face a terrifying possibility: the Snark might actually be a deadly Boojum. When one crew member finally discovers their quarry, he vanishes without a trace, confirming their darkest fears. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Disputation of Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences
"Disputation of Doctor Martin Luther on the Power and Efficacy of Indulgences" by Martin Luther is a list of propositions written in 1517. A professor of moral theology challenges the Catholic Church's practice of selling indulgences—certificates meant to reduce punishment for sins in purgatory. Luther questions whether the pope truly has authority over souls and argues that genuine repentance matters more than purchased pardons. These propositions, framed for academic debate, would ignite theological controversy and retrospectively mark the beginning of the Protestant Reformation. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner
"The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" by Samuel Taylor Coleridge is a poem written in 1797–98. A weathered sailor stops a wedding guest to share his haunting tale of a sea voyage gone terribly wrong. After shooting an albatross, the mariner faces supernatural punishment and watches his crew perish. He must wander the earth forever, compelled to retell his story as penance. The poem explores guilt, redemption, and the consequences of violating nature through vivid narrative and supernatural imagery. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address
"Abraham Lincoln's First Inaugural Address" by Abraham Lincoln is a historical document delivered as a speech on March 4, 1861. This address takes place during a tumultuous period in American history, specifically the lead-up to the Civil War. In this speech, Lincoln aims to reassure a divided nation, emphasizing the importance of the Union and the continuity of the Constitution while addressing the contentious issues surrounding slavery. In his address, Lincoln acknowledges the fears of Southern states regarding the protection of their rights and property, particularly concerning slavery. He firmly asserts that he has no intention to interfere with the institution of slavery where it already exists and advocates for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Lincoln discusses the nature of the Union, arguing that it is perpetual and cannot be dissolved by individual states. By appealing to unity, he calls for patience and a commitment to dialogue while reminding listeners that civil war would only arise from aggression.
Inaugural Address of Franklin Delano Roosevelt Given in Washington, D.C. March 4th, 1933
"Inaugural Address of Franklin Delano Roosevelt" by Franklin D. Roosevelt is a historical speech given during the early 20th century, specifically in the context of the Great Depression. This address marks the beginning of Roosevelt's presidency and highlights his urgent call for action to address the economic crisis facing the nation. The book serves as a pivotal document reflecting the themes of hope, leadership, and the need for reform during a time of national struggle. In his inaugural address, Roosevelt directly confronts the challenges of the Great Depression, emphasizing that the primary adversary is fear itself. He expresses a deep commitment to restoring the nation's economic health by advocating for immediate governmental intervention and action. Roosevelt outlines various measures to alleviate unemployment and stimulate recovery, stressing the importance of collective effort and national unity. He calls for an end to the unethical practices in banking and business while insisting on the necessary rebalancing of the economy, aiming to restore public confidence and revitalize American society.
The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America
"The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America" by Thomas Jefferson is a founding document adopted in 1776. Written primarily by Jefferson between June 11 and June 28, it formally explains why the Thirteen Colonies declared independence from British rule. The document lists 27 grievances against King George III and asserts natural rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Its ratification on July 4, 1776, marked an act of treason against the Crown, transforming colonial delegates into America's Founding Fathers. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death
"Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death" by Patrick Henry is a historic speech delivered in 1775, which serves as an impassioned call to arms during the American Revolution. The text falls within the genre of oratory, representing the fervent political discourse of the time. This pivotal moment reflects the prelude to conflict between the American colonies and British rule, highlighting the serious issues surrounding freedom and tyranny. In his speech, Henry passionately argues for the necessity of fighting against British oppression, cautioning his fellow countrymen against the false hope of reconciliation. He emphasizes the futility of peaceful negotiations and presents the situation as a stark choice between liberty and slavery. By invoking powerful imagery and appeals to human experience, he urges his audience to recognize the immediacy of the threat and the need for an armed response. The concluding declaration—"Give me liberty or give me death!"—serves as a rallying cry for those seeking independence, encapsulating the determination and urgency of the revolutionary spirit. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address
"Abraham Lincoln's Second Inaugural Address" by Abraham Lincoln is a speech delivered on March 4, 1865, as the Civil War neared its end. Rather than celebrating impending victory, Lincoln spoke with somber reflection on the war's meaning and divine purpose. He identified slavery as the war's cause and suggested the conflict might be God's punishment for the nation's sins. The address contemplates unknowable divine will and calls for reconciliation, urging Americans to "bind up the nation's wounds" without harsh treatment of the defeated South. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Lincoln's Gettysburg Address Given November 19, 1863 on the battlefield near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, USA
"Lincoln's Gettysburg Address" by Abraham Lincoln is a speech delivered on November 19, 1863, at the dedication of Soldiers' National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Following the Civil War's deadliest battle, Lincoln spoke for less than two minutes before 15,000 people, delivering only 271 words. He invoked the Declaration of Independence and honored those who died defending the nation's founding principles, closing with his famous vision of "government of the people, by the people, for the people." (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Symphony No. 5 in C minor Opus 67
"Symphony No. 5 in C minor Opus 67" by Ludwig van Beethoven is a symphony composed between 1804 and 1808. It opens with one of music's most recognizable motifs: four notes often described as "fate knocking at the door." Written during a turbulent period marked by Beethoven's increasing deafness and Napoleon's wars, the work premiered in Vienna in 1808. Critics hailed it as profoundly moving, describing how it leads listeners into a "spirit world of the infinite" where grief and joy intertwine. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Opus 67
"Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Opus 67" by Ludwig van Beethoven is a symphony composed between 1804 and 1808. Opening with one of music's most recognizable motifs—a distinctive four-note "short-short-short-long" pattern often described as "fate knocking at the door"—this work has become a cornerstone of Western classical music. Written during Beethoven's increasing deafness and the turbulent Napoleonic era, the symphony premiered in Vienna in 1808 to a mixed reception, but soon achieved legendary status through its dramatic power and emotional depth. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
Franz Haydn's 104th Symphony [1794-5] MIDI file
"Franz Haydn's 104th Symphony [1794-5]" by Joseph Haydn is a symphony composed in 1795. This work marks Haydn's final symphony and concludes his celebrated twelve London symphonies. Composed during his residence in London, it premiered successfully at the King's Theatre, earning Haydn significant acclaim and profit. The symphony opens with a dramatic minor-key introduction before transitioning to spirited major themes. Its finale draws on folk music traditions, featuring a drone bass and a melody with possible Croatian folk origins, creating an exuberant conclusion to Haydn's symphonic legacy. (This is an automatically generated summary.)