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"The Kreutzer Sonata and Other Stories" collects six of Tolstoy's finest short stories into one edition. In "How Much Land Does a Man Need?", Tolstoy explores this very question through the story of a peasant with an increasing appetite for land-an appetite which becomes his ruin. "The Death of Ivan Ilyich", one of Tolstoy's short masterpieces, tells of the early death of a high-court judge in 19th century Russian. "Family Happiness" explores the female identity within changing romantic relationships. Narrated in first person by the protagonist Masha, the tale is a skilled and engrossing story of a woman's difficult position in a shifting society. "The Kreutzer Sonata" is an intense tale of love, marriage, sex, and jealousy. Initially banned by the Russian censors, the novella has inspired many films, theater productions, and paintings. In "The Devil", Evgeni Irtenev struggles with a new inheritance riddled with debts when sudden romance and lust threaten to turn his world upside down. Lastly, "Father Sergius" tells of a young aristocrat who, upon discovery of his fiancé's infidelity, retreats into the life of a monastic Orthodox Christian, though this radically new life proves to be difficult. This representative collection of short stories exhibits why Leo Tolstoy is considered one of the world's most renowned authors. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.

The last novel written by Leo Tolstoy, "Resurrection" was first published in 1899 amidst huge anticipation. What surprised the world was Tolstoy's story of a guilt-ridden nobleman, haunted by the sins of his past and seeking a way to atone for them. The aristocratic Prince Dmitri Ivanovich Nekhlyudov serves on a jury of a murder trial, only to discover that the accused prostitute is Maslova, a maid he seduced and abandoned years before. Though he comes to realize that Maslova was framed, she is sent to Siberia, and in his attempts to help her, he discovers a new world of squalid prisons, oppression, and misery. Dmitri finally sees a comprehensive vista of Russian life, much more a nightmare than the pleasant dream he has known, which begins his convoluted struggle with responsibility and morals. In this powerful denunciation, Tolstoy criticizes the complacency of the government and judicial system, as well as the hypocrisy of religion and the upper classes. All the while, he reveals the greatest depths of a guilty man, and the lengths he can and does take for redemption. This edition follows the translation of Louise Maude and is printed on premium acid-free paper.

Only twenty-four when he joined the Scott expedition, an intellectual Englishman desirous of feeding his passion for knowledge with first-hand discovery in Antarctica, Apsley Cherry-Garrard ultimately learned and endured enough to begin questioning everything he had ever known. From 1910 to 1913, this young man was a part of an expedition for penguin eggs that went fatally wrong. Cherry-Garrard describes the individual crew members, the specifics of their scientific discoveries, and the remarkable human resilience exhibited by everyone in the harsh climes of the South Pole. From the boat journey on the 'Terra Nova' to the tragically climactic search for the missing Scott, Cherry-Garrard frankly recounts all of the ensuing difficulties and their causes, in addition to questioning his own decisions and actions prior to the demise of the captain and crew. "The Worst Journey in the World" is a masterpiece of travel writing that unfolds the harrowing tale of the British Antarctic Expedition's sole survivor and his haunted search for a meaning to the human suffering he witnessed. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.

First released in 1901, about one year after Nietzsche's death, "The Will to Power" is a collection of Nietzsche's unedited and unpublished writings. Though the title and all of the ideas are of the radical philosopher's own invention, the order and selection of Nietzsche's notebooks are due to the organization of his sister. As a result of his poor health, Nietzsche used his remaining energy to write a different work, leaving "The Will to Power" in the earliest stages of writing. The topics he explores vary widely and include nihilism, religion, morality, the theory of knowledge, and art. Some ideas are reflected in the works Nietzsche managed to complete in his lifetime, while others show his progression from those ideas in his earlier life. Overall, "The Will to Power" is an opportunity to read the intellectual journaling of one of the nineteenth century's most brilliant thinkers. Collected together here are both posthumously published volumes I and II as translated by Anthony M. Ludovici. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.

"Human, All-Too-Human (Parts I and II)" is a collection of philosophical aphorisms by famed philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. The first part, originally published in 1878, is a collection of 638 aphorisms in which Nietzsche discusses metaphysics, the Christian idea of good and evil, religious worship, the idea of divine inspiration in art, social Darwinism, the respective roles of men, women, and children in society, the power of the state, and in a final section "Man Alone with Himself". In the second part we find what were originally published as parts II (1879) and III (1880), which contains 408 and 350 aphorisms respectively. Friedrich Nietzsche is widely regarded as one the most important philosophers of all time and that impact is ever apparent in this book, an accessible volume of thoughts upon social, religious, cultural, political, and psychological issues. Part I follows the translation of Helen Zimmern with an introduction by J. M. Kennedy. Part II is translated with an introduction by Paul V. Cohn. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.

First published in 1876, "Daniel Deronda" was George Eliot's final novel. Controversial in its time for its morally ambiguous characterizations and its sympathy for the proto-Zionist movement, the novel is regarded today as one of the great social satires of the Victorian era. The story begins with the meeting of Daniel Deronda and the beautiful but stubborn and selfish, Gwendolen Harleth, whom he witnesses loses all her money at a game of roulette. The following day, Gwendolen learns that her family is bankrupt and consequently pawns her necklace, which is fortunately returned to her in a sympathetic gesture by Daniel. Faced with the loss of the family fortune in an economic downturn, Gwendolen ponders her options for obtaining financial security. She is reluctant to take a position as a governess desiring to become an actress and singer instead. Ultimately she chooses to marry the wealthy but manipulative Henleigh Mallinger Grandcourt, a decision she quickly regrets. Meanwhile Daniel becomes acquainted with Mirah Lapidoth, a young Jewish woman, whom he rescues from drowning. Daniel seeking a purpose in his life begins to identify with the cause of establishing a Jewish nation. Through the portrayals of Gwendolen and Daniel, Eliot provides a robust tale of the search for meaning amidst the decadence and materialism of Victorian British society. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and includes an introduction by Esther Wood.

Regarded as one of the most spiritual books of all time "Autobiography of a Yogi" is the story of Paramahansa Yogananda told in his own words. As Walter Y. Evans-Wentz remarks in his preface to the book "The value of Yogananda's 'Autobiography' is greatly enhanced by the fact that it is one of the few books in English about the wise men of India which has been written, not by a journalist or foreigner, but by one of their own race and training--in short, a book about yogis by a yogi." This work takes the reader along on Yogananda's spiritual journey from his upbringing in Gorakhpur, India, to his search for his spiritual guru, Yukteswar Giri, and ultimately to the founding of the Self-Realization Fellowship in the United States. Not only a great chronicle of a deeply spiritual life, "Autobiography of a Yogi" has also been hugely influential in disseminating the spiritual ideas of yoga and meditation in the Western world. Cited as an influence for such luminaries as Steve Jobs and George Harrison, "Autobiography of a Yogi", will surely inspire readers for years to come. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and reproduces the original 1946 edition.

First published serially in "The Atlantic Monthly" between 1880 and 1881, Henry James' "The Portrait of a Lady" is widely regarded as one of the author's finest literary achievements. As is common with James' work a contrast is drawn between the cultural and social differences between America and Europe through the portrayal of American expatriates in Europe. The titular lady in question is that of Isabel Archer, a spirited young American woman who inherits a large sum of money and subsequently falls prey to the machinations of individuals trying to gain control of her fortune. The fiercely independent Isabel is set upon fully enjoying her fortune by travelling the European continent. While she had previously rejected two marriage proposals she is taken with an American expatriate, Gilbert Osmond, while visiting Florence, and decides to accept his matrimonial offer. Marital bliss quickly turns to unhappiness when the two settle in Rome and Isabel realizes Gilbert's overwhelming egotism and lack of genuine affection for her. One of James' most enduringly popular works "The Portrait of a Lady" is heralded as a classic of the modern era. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and includes an introduction by Charles R. Anderson.

First published serially from 1847 to 1848, "Vanity Fair" is William Makepeace Thackeray's most famous work in which the author reflects his interest in deconstructing the notions of literary heroism of his era. It is the story of Becky Sharp and Amelia Sedley, who have just completed their studies at Miss Pinkerton's Academy for Young Ladies and are beginning to embark upon the world. The simple-minded nature of Amelia, who comes from a wealthy family, is contrasted with the strong-willed nature of Becky, who will stop at nothing to climb the social ranks of English society. The novel takes its name from John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress", one of the most famous work of Thackeray's day, in which a town called Vanity is depicted to represent man's sinful attachment to worldly things. Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, "Vanity Fair" is Thackeray's classic satire of the societal trappings of Victorian England, self described as a novel without a hero. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper, includes an introduction by John Edwin Wells, and illustrations by Charles Crombie.

Perhaps one of the most consequential works of all time, "Capital" is the German treatise on political economy by Karl Marx that critically analyzes capitalism. First published in 1867 as the beginning of an ambitious but unfinished six-volume series, Marx would only see the first volume published in his lifetime with two more published posthumously by Friedrich Engels, this work extensively attempts to expose and explain the capitalist mode of production and the class struggles embedded within it. "Capital" was written while Marx was exiled in England, and many of the examples he uses to illustrate private property and its social relations are derived from his time there. Ultimately, this work argues that capitalism would create a divide between wealth and general welfare, and the solution was the replacement of capitalism with a system of common possession in regards to the means of production. Marx's work gained wide readership in a very short span of time, proving highly influential in Russia, Europe, and eventually the rest of the world. Presented here in this edition is the first volume printed on a premium acid-free paper.

In ancient Rome, Seneca the Younger rose to power as a politician and statesman during the middle of his life. After being exiled by Emperor Caligula, he was finally welcomed back to Rome as Nero's minister. He gained significant wealth, though Seneca often despised his own standing because of his personal philosophy. At the end of his life, Seneca wrote a number of letters to the Roman governor of Sicily. From this collection of letters comes "Letters from a Stoic." In this work, the philosopher wrote about the essential tenants of Stoicism and how to follow a philosophy that required a person to humanize a society that was often cold and difficult. Many people read these letters and come away with a greater understanding of Stoicism; the people who practiced Stoicism often lived the phrase "actions speak louder than words," meaning that Stoics wanted their deeds to exhibit their rational and calm nature. This work also reveals how Seneca and his contemporaries wanted people to treat others with the same respect they wanted for themselves. He was disgusted with the harsh and unethical treatment of slaves that was prevalent at the time, and he was against Nero's idea of entertainment which entailed throwing martyrs, gladiators, and animals into a fighting arena. Although Stoicism is not now as widely practiced as it once was, many people can still find wisdom and inspiration in Seneca's words. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.

Raskolnikov is an impoverished former student living in Saint Petersburg, Russia who feels compelled to rob and murder Alyona Ivanovna, an elderly pawn broker and money lender. After much deliberation the young man sneaks into her apartment and commits the murder. In the chaos of the crime Raskolnikov fails to steal anything of real value, the primary purpose of his actions to begin with. In the period that follows Raskolnikov is racked with guilt over the crime that he has committed and begins to worry excessively about being discovered. His guilt begins to manifest itself in physical ways. He falls into a feverish state and his actions grow increasingly strange almost as if he subconsciously wishes to be discovered. As suspicion begins to mount towards him, he is ultimately faced with the decision as to how he can atone for the heinous crime that he has committed, for it is only through this atonement that he may achieve some psychological relief. As is common with Dostoyevsky's work, the author brilliantly explores the psychology of his characters, providing the reader with a deeper understanding of the motivations and conflicts that are central to the human condition. First published in 1866, "Crime and Punishment" is one of Fyodor Dostoyevsky's most famous novels, and to this day is regarded as one of the true masterpieces of world literature. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper, is translated by Constance Garnett, and includes an Introduction by Nathan B. Fagin.

First serialized between March and July of 1844, Alexandre Dumas's "The Three Musketeers" is one of the author's most famous works, the opening installment in the "d'Artagnan Romances." A timeless tale of adventure, romance, intrigue, and revenge, it is the captivating story of d'Artagnan, a young man of Gascony, who is determined to become a Musketeer of the Royal Guard. Through his wit and skill with a sword, he befriends the other Musketeers, Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. Together they must foil the nefarious plotting of Cardinal Richelieu against the King and Queen, despite his appearance as an ally. The Musketeers must also overcome the villainous machinations of Milady de Winter, whose lethal criminality threatens those in power and the love of d'Artagnan for Constance Bonacieux. Dumas's classic story has enthralled readers with its fast-paced action, endearing characters, and romantic ideals ever since its original publication. The camaraderie of the Musketeers has been forever immortalized by their famous motto "one for all, all for one." This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and includes an introduction by J. Walker McSpadden.

"On Liberty and Other Essays" brings together the most important works of philosopher and political economist John Stuart Mill. In "On Liberty" Mill eloquently ponders the question of where the line should be drawn between the freedom of individuals and the authority of the state. As he puts it, "The struggle between liberty and authority is the most conspicuous feature in the portions of history with which we are earliest familiar..." Second in this volume, "Utilitarianism" is the classic exposition of the Utilitarian philosophy, the basic principle of which is that one's actions should be guided towards outcomes that create the greatest good for the greatest numbers of people. In "Considerations on Representative Government," Mill makes his arguments for the representative form of government as the ideal one. Lastly, "The Subjection of Women" is an essay co-written with his wife, Harriet Taylor Mill, arguing in favor of equality between the sexes. Arguably one of the most important political thinkers of the modern era, John Stuart's Mill's influence on Western civilization cannot be overstated. This representative selection collects together the principal works from which that reputation is garnered. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and includes an introduction by A. D. Lindsay.

Originally serialized in "Bentley's Miscellany" between February 1837 and April 1839, "Oliver Twist," is Charles Dickens's second novel, the classic story of the struggles of a young orphan in 19th century England. When his mother dies in childbirth, Oliver Twist finds himself in a situation of dire poverty. At the time, those who could not afford to provide for themselves were often forced into servitude under the harsh Poor Laws of 19th century England. At the age of nine, Oliver is set to work picking and weaving oakum at the workhouse where he lives. The circumstances of Oliver's life are brutal, with meager food, clothing, and shelter, he finds himself in an unenviable position. "Oliver Twist," is an early example of social criticism, in which Dickens effectively draws attention to the political issues of child labor and the struggles of the poor. Drawing upon his own experiences as an impoverished youth, Dickens brought to light the struggles of the lower classes in a way that continues to resonate with audiences until this day. This edition includes an introduction by Edwin Percy Whipple and is printed on premium acid-free paper.

The present book is intended, as far as possible, to give an exact insight into the theory of relativity to those readers who, from a general scientific and philosophical point of view, are interested in the theory, but who are not conversant with the mathematical apparatus of theoretical physics. The text is divided into three parts which deal respectively with the special theory of relativity, with the general theory of relativity, and with considerations on the universe as a whole. The special theory deals with the physics of elementary particles while the general theory is concerned with the force of gravity and its effect on the other forces of nature. These two theories, while exceptional in their explanations of their particular focus, are inconsistent with each other, and it has long been an aim of the science of physics to help resolve these inconsistencies. Einstein proposed that, rather than discarding these two principles for being conflicting, the rules of time and space should be completely revamped and rethought in order to find a way to make these two principles work in harmony. It is Einstein's work on relativity which would earn him the 1921 Nobel Prize in Physics and establish his legacy as one of the most famous scientists of all time. This edition is translated by Robert W. Lawson and is printed on premium acid-free paper.

Giorgio Vasari's biographical collection "The Lives of the Artists" is one of the most frequently cited art history books since the 16th century. It is also the first comprehensive book on art history ever created. In the work, Vasari brings together facts, knowledge, and sometimes gossip about almost 200 Renaissance artists. Most of the biographies are focused on Florentines and Romans, though Vasari also wrote about other European artists. "The Lives of Artists" not only discusses the importance of the artists, but it also serves as a book of art criticism. Vasari looked at the artists' paintings in minute detail, describing the positive and negative aspects of the artistry as well as the quality of the work. "The Lives of the Artists" has not escaped criticism, though. Many scholars and historians realize that Vasari's information was not always completely accurate; with the lesser-known artists, he flubs dates and other minor information. Vasari also sometimes invented some information and gossip about the artists. However, many have argued that the false information, or gossip, is truthful in spirit, even if the actual events did not happen. Regardless, "The Lives of Artists" is still one of the best art criticism and art history books in the genre, and it provides a valuable look at how the leading artists of the Renaissance helped to shape and redefine the art of their time. Contained here is a selection of thirty-three of the most important biographies from Vasari's expansive work is a single volume which follows the translation of Gaston du. C. de Vere and is printed on premium acid-free paper.

One of Sir Walter Scott's most popular and influential works, "Ivanhoe" is the story of one of the last remaining Saxon noble families. At the beginning of the novel we find its titular character, Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe, who has been disinherited by his father for his allegiance to the Norman king, Richard the Lionheart, and for falling in love with the Lady Rowena, returning from the Third Crusade. Wilfred's father, Cedric, had planned to marry Lady Rowena to the powerful Lord Athelstane, in order to bolster the position of the Saxon nobility, whose power is being surpassed by the Normans. Wilfred is coaxed into participation in a tournament attended by Lady Rowena with whom he hopes to reunite. He quickly finds himself embroiled in a power struggle between Prince John, who oversees the tournament and is scheming with the help of knights of the Templar Order to control the throne, and the noble and rightful King Richard. "Ivanhoe", which provides us with one of the most popular literary depictions of Robin Hood and his merry men, is a classic tale of the middle ages, filled with chivalry, adventure, and romance. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper, is illustrated by Milo Winter, and includes an introduction by Porter Lander MacClintock.

"Expert Card Technique" by Jean Hugard and Frederick Braue is a detailed and instructive guide on how to master the manipulation of cards. Jean Hugard, born John Gerard Rodney Boyce in Queensland, Australia in 1872, began his professional career as a magician in 1896 and eventually moved to America in 1915 where he worked in vaudeville and as a stage magician. He retired from performing professionally around 1930 and began a prolific and successful career writing books on magic. As he became older and lost his eyesight, the magician Frederick Braue began co-writing several books with Hugard on the art of card magic. Braue was a journalist and semi-professional magician who specialized in card tricks and was viewed as a master at this skill. In their book "Expert Card Technique", these magical geniuses show even the most novice beginner how to learn to manipulate cards in basic ways and then moves on to teach more advanced flourishes, such as forces, fans, and prearranged decks. This guide is indispensable to anyone who wishes to handle cards with impressive dexterity and for those studying magic, as these are skills that must be mastered before complicated card tricks can be performed with ease. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.