There Are Crimes and Crimes By: August Strindberg (1849-1912)
August Strindberg's "There Are Crimes and Crimes" is an intense and thought-provoking read that delves into the murky depths of human nature and the complexities of morality. Set in late 19th-century Sweden, Strindberg explores various crimes committed by characters from different walks of life, exposing the hypocrisy, corruption, and dark desires that lurk beneath societal facades. The book is divided into three acts, each focusing on a different crime. Through vividly descriptive language and powerful dialogue, Strindberg masterfully portrays the psychological and emotional turmoil that accompanies these transgressions. He delves into the minds of his characters, revealing their darkest secrets, inner conflicts, and the motives behind their actions. One aspect that stands out in this work is Strindberg's strong social commentary. He skillfully uses his characters to critique the hypocritical nature of the upper classes, the oppressive treatment of women, and the damaging effects of a rigid social structure. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that the crimes committed are not limited to criminal acts but also encompass the injustices committed by society itself. Strindberg's writing style is dark and atmospheric, reflecting the somber themes of the book. His ability to create tension and a sense of impending doom is remarkable, keeping the reader captivated from start to finish. The dialogue is sharp, often veering into philosophical discussions on morality, justice, and the inherent flaws of humanity. While the book's somber tone may not appeal to every reader, its exploration of the human psyche and societal issues makes it a compelling and relevant read even today. Strindberg's insights into the human condition are profound, and his critique of societal structures remains thought-provoking. "There Are Crimes and Crimes" is a powerful and timeless work of literature that forces readers to confront the multifaceted nature of crimes and the inherent flaws of society. Strindberg's ability to delve into the depths of human nature and deliver a scathing critique of the societal norms of his time is a testament to his skill as a writer. This book is a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating literary experience. First Page: There are Crimes and Crimes A Comedy by August Strindberg Translated from the Swedish with an Introduction by Edwin Bjorkman INTRODUCTION Strindberg was fifty years old when he wrote "There Are Crimes and Crimes." In the same year, 1899, he produced three of his finest historical dramas: "The Saga of the Folkungs," "Gustavus Vasa," and "Eric XIV." Just before, he had finished "Advent," which he described as "A Mystery," and which was published together with "There Are Crimes and Crimes" under the common title of "In a Higher Court." Back of these dramas lay his strange confessional works, "Inferno" and "Legends," and the first two parts of his autobiographical dream play, "Toward Damascus" all of which were finished between May, 1897, and some time in the latter part of 1898. And back of these again lay that period of mental crisis, when, at Paris, in 1895 and 1896, he strove to make gold by the transmutation of baser metals, while at the same time his spirit was travelling through all the seven hells in its search for the heaven promised by the great mystics of the past. "There Are Crimes and Crimes" may, in fact, be regarded as his first definite step beyond that crisis, of which the preceding works were at once the record and closing chord. When, in 1909, he issued "The Author," being a long withheld fourth part of his first autobiographical series, "The Bondwoman's Son," he prefixed to it an analytical summary of the entire body of his work... Continue reading book >>

There Are Crimes and Crimes By: August Strindberg (1849-1912)

August Strindberg's "There Are Crimes and Crimes" is an intense and thought-provoking read that delves into the murky depths of human nature and the complexities of morality. Set in late 19th-century Sweden, Strindberg explores various crimes committed by characters from different walks of life, exposing the hypocrisy, corruption, and dark desires that lurk beneath societal facades.

The book is divided into three acts, each focusing on a different crime. Through vividly descriptive language and powerful dialogue, Strindberg masterfully portrays the psychological and emotional turmoil that accompanies these transgressions. He delves into the minds of his characters, revealing their darkest secrets, inner conflicts, and the motives behind their actions.

One aspect that stands out in this work is Strindberg's strong social commentary. He skillfully uses his characters to critique the hypocritical nature of the upper classes, the oppressive treatment of women, and the damaging effects of a rigid social structure. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that the crimes committed are not limited to criminal acts but also encompass the injustices committed by society itself.

Strindberg's writing style is dark and atmospheric, reflecting the somber themes of the book. His ability to create tension and a sense of impending doom is remarkable, keeping the reader captivated from start to finish. The dialogue is sharp, often veering into philosophical discussions on morality, justice, and the inherent flaws of humanity.

While the book's somber tone may not appeal to every reader, its exploration of the human psyche and societal issues makes it a compelling and relevant read even today. Strindberg's insights into the human condition are profound, and his critique of societal structures remains thought-provoking.

"There Are Crimes and Crimes" is a powerful and timeless work of literature that forces readers to confront the multifaceted nature of crimes and the inherent flaws of society. Strindberg's ability to delve into the depths of human nature and deliver a scathing critique of the societal norms of his time is a testament to his skill as a writer. This book is a must-read for those seeking a thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating literary experience.

First Page:

There are Crimes and Crimes

A Comedy

August Strindberg

Translated from the Swedish with an Introduction by Edwin Bjorkman

INTRODUCTION

Strindberg was fifty years old when he wrote "There Are Crimes and Crimes." In the same year, 1899, he produced three of his finest historical dramas: "The Saga of the Folkungs," "Gustavus Vasa," and "Eric XIV." Just before, he had finished "Advent," which he described as "A Mystery," and which was published together with "There Are Crimes and Crimes" under the common title of "In a Higher Court." Back of these dramas lay his strange confessional works, "Inferno" and "Legends," and the first two parts of his autobiographical dream play, "Toward Damascus" all of which were finished between May, 1897, and some time in the latter part of 1898. And back of these again lay that period of mental crisis, when, at Paris, in 1895 and 1896, he strove to make gold by the transmutation of baser metals, while at the same time his spirit was travelling through all the seven hells in its search for the heaven promised by the great mystics of the past.

"There Are Crimes and Crimes" may, in fact, be regarded as his first definite step beyond that crisis, of which the preceding works were at once the record and closing chord. When, in 1909, he issued "The Author," being a long withheld fourth part of his first autobiographical series, "The Bondwoman's Son," he prefixed to it an analytical summary of the entire body of his work... Continue reading book >>

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