The Infernal Marriage By: Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881)
In "The Infernal Marriage," Benjamin Disraeli takes readers on a gripping journey filled with political intrigue, societal tension, and forbidden love. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society, Disraeli weaves a complex web of relationships and power struggles that will keep readers engrossed from beginning to end. The story dives into the tumultuous marriage between Lord Montfort, a nobleman of high standing, and Lucretia, a captivating woman with a mysterious past. As their union unfolds and secrets begin to surface, Disraeli skillfully exposes the hypocrisy and machinations of the upper echelons of society. Readers are treated to a cast of well-developed characters, each with their own motivations and inner demons, making for a captivating and multifaceted narrative. One of the novel's strong points is Disraeli's keen observations of the prevailing political climate of nineteenth-century England. The author deftly uses the marriage as a metaphor for the challenges faced by the country at that time, particularly the tension between tradition and progress, and the changing roles of women in society. Through his writing, Disraeli seamlessly intertwines these societal clashes with personal struggles, resulting in a layered narrative that resonates with readers. Moreover, Disraeli's prose is elegant and evocative, painting vivid pictures of grand estates, lavish balls, and the opulent lifestyle of the aristocracy. The use of witty dialogues and clever banter adds not only depth to the characters but also injects the story with moments of levity and charm. At times, however, the extensive descriptions and political intricacies might be overwhelming for readers not accustomed to the historical genre. While some may question the ending's satisfying resolution, "The Infernal Marriage" offers an intriguing exploration of love, power, and ambition within the context of a rapidly changing world. Disraeli's novel serves as a timeless reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that true strength lies in the ability to challenge one's own circumstances. In conclusion, "The Infernal Marriage" is a meticulously crafted historical novel that will have readers captivated from the first page. With its richly drawn characters, complex narrative, and thought-provoking exploration of societal dynamics, Benjamin Disraeli's work stands as a testament to his skill as a writer and storyteller. First Page: THE INFERNAL MARRIAGE By Benjamin Disraeli Proserpine was the daughter of Jupiter and Ceres. Pluto, the god of Hell, became enamoured of her. His addresses were favoured by her father, but opposed by Ceres. Under these circumstances, he surprised her on the plains of Enna, and carried her off in his chariot. THE INFERNAL MARRIAGE PART I. A Sublime Elopement IT WAS clearly a runaway match never indeed was such a sublime elopement. The four horses were coal black, with blood red manes and tails; and they were shod with rubies. They were harnessed to a basaltic car by a single rein of flame. Waving his double pronged trident in the air, the god struck the blue breast of Cyane, and the waters instantly parted. In rushed the wild chariot, the pale and insensible Proserpine clinging to the breast of her grim lover. Through the depths of the hitherto unfathomed lake the infernal steeds held their breathless course. The car jolted against its bed. 'Save me!' exclaimed the future Queen of Hades, and she clung with renewed energy to the bosom of the dark bridegroom. The earth opened; they entered the kingdom of the gnomes. Here Pluto was popular. The lurid populace gave him a loud shout. The chariot whirled along through shadowy cities and by dim highways, swarming with a busy race of shades... Continue reading book >>

The Infernal Marriage By: Benjamin Disraeli (1804-1881)

In "The Infernal Marriage," Benjamin Disraeli takes readers on a gripping journey filled with political intrigue, societal tension, and forbidden love. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing society, Disraeli weaves a complex web of relationships and power struggles that will keep readers engrossed from beginning to end.

The story dives into the tumultuous marriage between Lord Montfort, a nobleman of high standing, and Lucretia, a captivating woman with a mysterious past. As their union unfolds and secrets begin to surface, Disraeli skillfully exposes the hypocrisy and machinations of the upper echelons of society. Readers are treated to a cast of well-developed characters, each with their own motivations and inner demons, making for a captivating and multifaceted narrative.

One of the novel's strong points is Disraeli's keen observations of the prevailing political climate of nineteenth-century England. The author deftly uses the marriage as a metaphor for the challenges faced by the country at that time, particularly the tension between tradition and progress, and the changing roles of women in society. Through his writing, Disraeli seamlessly intertwines these societal clashes with personal struggles, resulting in a layered narrative that resonates with readers.

Moreover, Disraeli's prose is elegant and evocative, painting vivid pictures of grand estates, lavish balls, and the opulent lifestyle of the aristocracy. The use of witty dialogues and clever banter adds not only depth to the characters but also injects the story with moments of levity and charm. At times, however, the extensive descriptions and political intricacies might be overwhelming for readers not accustomed to the historical genre.

While some may question the ending's satisfying resolution, "The Infernal Marriage" offers an intriguing exploration of love, power, and ambition within the context of a rapidly changing world. Disraeli's novel serves as a timeless reminder that appearances can be deceiving and that true strength lies in the ability to challenge one's own circumstances.

In conclusion, "The Infernal Marriage" is a meticulously crafted historical novel that will have readers captivated from the first page. With its richly drawn characters, complex narrative, and thought-provoking exploration of societal dynamics, Benjamin Disraeli's work stands as a testament to his skill as a writer and storyteller.

First Page:

THE INFERNAL MARRIAGE

By Benjamin Disraeli

Proserpine was the daughter of Jupiter and Ceres. Pluto, the god of Hell, became enamoured of her. His addresses were favoured by her father, but opposed by Ceres. Under these circumstances, he surprised her on the plains of Enna, and carried her off in his chariot.

THE INFERNAL MARRIAGE

PART I.

A Sublime Elopement

IT WAS clearly a runaway match never indeed was such a sublime elopement. The four horses were coal black, with blood red manes and tails; and they were shod with rubies. They were harnessed to a basaltic car by a single rein of flame. Waving his double pronged trident in the air, the god struck the blue breast of Cyane, and the waters instantly parted. In rushed the wild chariot, the pale and insensible Proserpine clinging to the breast of her grim lover.

Through the depths of the hitherto unfathomed lake the infernal steeds held their breathless course. The car jolted against its bed. 'Save me!' exclaimed the future Queen of Hades, and she clung with renewed energy to the bosom of the dark bridegroom. The earth opened; they entered the kingdom of the gnomes. Here Pluto was popular. The lurid populace gave him a loud shout. The chariot whirled along through shadowy cities and by dim highways, swarming with a busy race of shades... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Fiction
Literature
Satire

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Wikipedia – Benjamin Disraeli
Wikipedia – The Infernal Marriage

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