The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James Summary
Literary Fiction Psychological Satire

The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James

"The Portrait of a Lady," written by Henry James and published in 1881, is a profound exploration of individual freedom, social conventions, and the constraints imposed by society. The novel centers around Isabel Archer, a young, spirited American woman who travels to Europe, seeking to assert her independence and explore the world.
The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy Summary
Literary Fiction Psychological

The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy

The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy is a profound exploration of the human condition, mortality, and the true meaning of life. The novella follows the life and death of Ivan Ilych, a high-ranking judge in 19th-century Russia, as he grapples with his impending death and reflects on the life he has led.