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A Hungarian Nabob   By: (1825-1904)

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A Hungarian Nabob by Mór Jókai is an enchanting piece of literature that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through time and cultural nuances. Set in the late 18th century, the book transports us to a mesmerizing world of politics, love, and intrigue in Hungary.

The story revolves around the life of Mihály Tódorffy, a charismatic and ambitious young man who rises from humble origins to become a prominent figure in Hungarian society. Jókai masterfully weaves together historical events and fictional elements, creating a rich tapestry of narratives that keeps readers engrossed from beginning to end.

One of the most commendable aspects of this novel is Jókai's impeccable attention to detail. Through vivid descriptions, he effortlessly transports us to a bygone era, making us feel as though we are right there alongside the characters. The author's deep knowledge of Hungarian history and culture shines through, and we are given a fascinating insight into the social and political landscape of the time.

Moreover, the character development in A Hungarian Nabob is truly exceptional. Mihály Tódorffy is a complex and enigmatic protagonist, driven by ambition yet plagued by personal dilemmas. His multifaceted personality and moral struggles make him extremely relatable, capturing the essence of the human condition. The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each with their unique quirks and motivations that add depth and authenticity to the story.

Jókai's writing style is eloquent and evocative, with a touch of wit and humor that adds charm to the narrative. While the story is undeniably filled with gripping twists and turns, it is ultimately a tale about love and its various forms. The romantic elements in the plot are beautifully rendered, serving as a poignant reminder of the power of true affection amidst tumultuous times.

However, despite its many merits, A Hungarian Nabob may not be everyone's cup of tea. The length of the novel and its occasional tangents into historical exposition might deter some readers who prefer a more concise storytelling style. Nonetheless, those willing to delve into this opus will be rewarded with a rewarding and enlightening experience.

In conclusion, A Hungarian Nabob is a literary masterpiece that deserves recognition for its historical accuracy, compelling plot, and well-drawn characters. Mór Jókai's talent for storytelling shines through every page, making this novel a must-read for those who appreciate a captivating blend of history, romance, and adventure. It is a testament to the enduring power of literature to transport us to different worlds and ignite our imaginations.

First Page:

WORKS OF MAURUS JÓKAI

HUNGARIAN EDITION

A HUNGARIAN NABOB

Translated from the Hungarian

By R. NISBET BAIN

NEW YORK DOUBLEDAY, PAGE & COMPANY

Copyright 1899 by Doubleday & McClure Co.

PREFACE.

This noble novel, now translated into English for the first time, was written nearly fifty years ago. On its first appearance, Hungarian critics of every school at once hailed it as a masterpiece. It has maintained its popularity ever since; and now, despite the manifold mutations of literary fashion, in Hungary as elsewhere, has reached the unassailable position of a national classic.

It is no light task to attempt to transplant a classic like "Egy Magyar Nábob." National tastes differ infinitely, and then there is the formidable initial difficulty of contending with a strange and baffling non aryan language. Only those few hardy linguists who have learnt, in the sweat of their brows, to read a meaning into that miracle of agglutinative ingenuity, an Hungarian sentence, will be able to appreciate the immense labour of rendering some four hundred pages of a Magyar masterpiece of peculiarly idiomatic difficulty into fairly readable English. But my profound admiration for the illustrious Hungarian romancer, and my intimate conviction that, of all continental novelists, he is most likely to appeal to healthy English taste, which has ever preferred the humorous and romantic story to the Tendenz Roman , or novel with a purpose, have encouraged me to persevere to the end of my formidable task... Continue reading book >>




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