Indeterminate Sentence By: Charles Dudley Warner (1829-1900)
Indeterminate Sentence by Charles Dudley Warner is a remarkable piece of literature that delves into the intricacies of the American prison system. Set in the late 19th century, this novel masterfully explores the themes of justice, redemption, and the flaws embedded within the penitentiary system. The plot revolves around the protagonist, John Harrington, a well-educated lawyer from a prominent family who is sentenced to prison for a crime he did not commit. Harrington's journey allows readers to witness the harsh realities of life behind bars, as well as the profound impact that incarceration has on the individual psyche. Warner's writing style is both captivating and thought-provoking. Through his vivid descriptions and detailed character development, he creates a world that feels both utterly realistic and deeply unsettling. The author skillfully portrays the monotony, violence, and dehumanization that exist within the prison walls, forcing readers to question the fairness and effectiveness of such a system. One of the major strengths of Indeterminate Sentence is Warner's ability to tackle complex moral questions without bias. He invites readers to reflect upon the nature of punishment, the potential for rehabilitation, and the societal responsibility for those who have committed crimes. This novel is neither a blatant condemnation nor an unabashed defense of the prison system, but rather a nuanced exploration of its flaws and merits. The characters in the book are vividly portrayed and elicit a wide range of emotions. John Harrington, in particular, is a compelling figure, struggling with his growing disillusionment and coming to terms with his own humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Warner successfully captures the essence of the human experience within the confines of the prison, making the characters relatable and engrossing. Though published over a century ago, Indeterminate Sentence continues to be relevant in today's society. It provokes discussions about punishment, criminal justice reform, and the treatment of those incarcerated. Warner's storytelling powerfully challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to imprisonment. In conclusion, Indeterminate Sentence by Charles Dudley Warner is a gripping and poignant novel that explores the complexities of the American prison system. With its well-crafted narrative, thought-provoking themes, and memorable characters, this book provides valuable insights into the flaws of the penal system that are still relevant today. Indeterminate Sentence is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of justice, humanity, and social reform. First Page: THE INDETERMINATE SENTENCE WHAT SHALL BE DONE WITH THE CRIMINAL CLASS? By Charles Dudley Warner The problem of dealing with the criminal class seems insolvable, and it undoubtedly is with present methods. It has never been attempted on a fully scientific basis, with due regard to the protection of society and to the interests of the criminal. It is purely an economic and educational problem, and must rest upon the same principles that govern in any successful industry, or in education, and that we recognize in the conduct of life. That little progress has been made is due to public indifference to a vital question and to the action of sentimentalists, who, in their philanthropic zeal; fancy that a radical reform can come without radical discipline. We are largely wasting our energies in petty contrivances instead of striking at the root of the evil. What do we mean by the criminal class? It is necessary to define this with some precision, in order to discuss intelligently the means of destroying this class. A criminal is one who violates a statute law, or, as we say, commits a crime. The human law takes cognizance of crime and not of sin. But all men who commit crime are not necessarily in the criminal class. Speaking technically, we put in that class those whose sole occupation is crime, who live by it as a profession, and who have no other permanent industry... Continue reading book >>

Indeterminate Sentence By: Charles Dudley Warner (1829-1900)

Indeterminate Sentence by Charles Dudley Warner is a remarkable piece of literature that delves into the intricacies of the American prison system. Set in the late 19th century, this novel masterfully explores the themes of justice, redemption, and the flaws embedded within the penitentiary system.

The plot revolves around the protagonist, John Harrington, a well-educated lawyer from a prominent family who is sentenced to prison for a crime he did not commit. Harrington's journey allows readers to witness the harsh realities of life behind bars, as well as the profound impact that incarceration has on the individual psyche.

Warner's writing style is both captivating and thought-provoking. Through his vivid descriptions and detailed character development, he creates a world that feels both utterly realistic and deeply unsettling. The author skillfully portrays the monotony, violence, and dehumanization that exist within the prison walls, forcing readers to question the fairness and effectiveness of such a system.

One of the major strengths of Indeterminate Sentence is Warner's ability to tackle complex moral questions without bias. He invites readers to reflect upon the nature of punishment, the potential for rehabilitation, and the societal responsibility for those who have committed crimes. This novel is neither a blatant condemnation nor an unabashed defense of the prison system, but rather a nuanced exploration of its flaws and merits.

The characters in the book are vividly portrayed and elicit a wide range of emotions. John Harrington, in particular, is a compelling figure, struggling with his growing disillusionment and coming to terms with his own humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. Warner successfully captures the essence of the human experience within the confines of the prison, making the characters relatable and engrossing.

Though published over a century ago, Indeterminate Sentence continues to be relevant in today's society. It provokes discussions about punishment, criminal justice reform, and the treatment of those incarcerated. Warner's storytelling powerfully challenges the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach to imprisonment.

In conclusion, Indeterminate Sentence by Charles Dudley Warner is a gripping and poignant novel that explores the complexities of the American prison system. With its well-crafted narrative, thought-provoking themes, and memorable characters, this book provides valuable insights into the flaws of the penal system that are still relevant today. Indeterminate Sentence is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of justice, humanity, and social reform.

First Page:

THE INDETERMINATE SENTENCE WHAT SHALL BE DONE WITH THE CRIMINAL CLASS?

By Charles Dudley Warner

The problem of dealing with the criminal class seems insolvable, and it undoubtedly is with present methods. It has never been attempted on a fully scientific basis, with due regard to the protection of society and to the interests of the criminal.

It is purely an economic and educational problem, and must rest upon the same principles that govern in any successful industry, or in education, and that we recognize in the conduct of life. That little progress has been made is due to public indifference to a vital question and to the action of sentimentalists, who, in their philanthropic zeal; fancy that a radical reform can come without radical discipline. We are largely wasting our energies in petty contrivances instead of striking at the root of the evil.

What do we mean by the criminal class? It is necessary to define this with some precision, in order to discuss intelligently the means of destroying this class. A criminal is one who violates a statute law, or, as we say, commits a crime. The human law takes cognizance of crime and not of sin. But all men who commit crime are not necessarily in the criminal class. Speaking technically, we put in that class those whose sole occupation is crime, who live by it as a profession, and who have no other permanent industry... Continue reading book >>

Genres for this book
Essay/Short nonfiction
Literature

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