Cæsar or Nothing By: Pío Baroja (1872-1956) |
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Cæsar or Nothing by Pío Baroja is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complex themes of ambition, power, and the pursuit of one's dreams. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Spain, the story follows the journey of the protagonist, who is willing to go to great lengths to achieve his desires.
The narrative brilliantly captures the spirit of the era and paints a vivid picture of Spain's social and political landscape during that time. Baroja's writing style is engaging, with his attention to detail immersing readers in a world filled with contrasting characters and their diverse motivations.
The protagonist's relentless pursuit of power and success forms the backbone of the novel, compelling readers to question their own ambitions and the sacrifices made in their pursuit. The author masterfully explores the intoxicating allure of power and its potentially destructive consequences, carefully balancing the protagonist's determination with the inevitable moral dilemmas he faces.
Baroja's characters are multi-dimensional and deeply human, each with their flaws and vulnerabilities. Through these characters, the author provides a broader critique of society, highlighting the impact of power dynamics on individuals and communities. The reader is left to ponder the ethical implications of pursuing personal ambitions at the expense of others.
Furthermore, the novel skillfully incorporates historical events and cultural references, offering readers a deeper understanding of the period. Baroja seamlessly weaves these elements into the narrative, enhancing the authenticity of the story and allowing readers to reflect on their own society's dynamics.
While the novel explores weighty themes, it maintains a gripping pace, ensuring readers stay engaged throughout. The narrative tension builds gradually, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they witness the protagonist's transformation and the consequences of his actions.
Cæsar or Nothing is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that transcends its historical setting. Pío Baroja's powerful storytelling and insightful exploration of ambition and power make this book a compelling read for anyone interested in examining the complexities of human nature and society. By Pío Baroja Translated from the Spanish by Louis How CONTENTS PROLOGUE PART ROME I THE PARIS VENTIMIGLIA EXPRESS II AN EXTRAORDINARY FAMILY III CÆSAR MONCADA IV PEOPLE WHO PASS CLOSE BY V THE ABBE PRECIOZI VI THE LITTLE INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE IN A ROMAN HOTEL VII THE CONFIDENCES or THE ABBE PRECIOZI VIII OLD PALACES, OLD SALONS, OLD LADIES IX NEW ACQUAINTANCES X A BALL XI A SOUNDING LINE IN THE DARK WORLD XII A MEETING ON THE PINCIO XIII ESTHETICS AND DEMAGOGY XIV NEW ATTEMPTS, NEW RAMBLES XV GIOVANNI BATTISTA, PAGAN XVI THE PORTRAIT OF A POPE XVII EVIL DAYS XVIII CÆSAR BORGIA'S MOTTO, "AUT CÆSAR, AUT NIHIL" XIX CÆSAR'S REFLECTIONS XX DON CALIXTO AT SAINT PETER'S XXI DON CALIXTO IN THE CATACOMBS XXII SENTIMENTALITY AND ARCHEOLOGY XXIII THE 'SCUTCHEON OF A CHURCH XXIV TOURIST INTERLUDE PART TWO CATRO DURO I ARRIVAL II CASTRO DURO III CÆSAR'S LABOURS IV THE BOOKSELLER AND THE ANARCHISTS V THE BANQUET VI UNCLE CHINAMAN VII A TRYING SCENE VIII THE ELECTION IX CÆSAR AS DEPUTY X POLITICAL LABOURS XI THE PITFALL OF SINIGAGLIA XII LOCAL STRUGGLES XIII AMPARITO IN ACTION XIV INTRANSIGENCE LOST XV "DRIVELLER" JUAN AND "THE CUB SLUT" XVI PITY, A MASK OF COWARDICE XVII FIRST VICTORY XVIII DECLARATION OF WAR XIX THE FIGHT FOR THE ELECTION XX CONFIDENCE XXI OUR VENERABLE TRADITIONS I OUR HOLY PRINCIPLES! XXII FINIS GLORIAE MUNDI PROLOGUE THE AUTHOR HOLDS FORTH IN REGARD TO THE CHARACTER OF HIS HERO MORE OR LESS TRANSCENDENTAL DIGRESSIONS The individual is the only real thing in nature and in life... Continue reading book >>
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