The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 08, No. 49, November, 1861   By: Various

This issue of The Atlantic Monthly provides a fascinating collection of essays, stories, and poems on a variety of topics. The literary content is diverse and thought-provoking, ranging from discussions on current events such as the Civil War to reflections on nature and human relationships. The writing is sharp and engaging, offering readers a glimpse into the intellectual landscape of the time. The authors display a keen understanding of their subjects and a mastery of language that makes for an enriching reading experience. Overall, this issue of The Atlantic Monthly is a captivating blend of literary works that will appeal to readers interested in history, culture, and literature.

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These words are applied by Horace to the great Cleopatra, whose heroic end he celebrates, even while exulting in her overthrow. We apply them to another woman of royal soul, who, capitulating with the world of her contemporaries, does not allow them the ignoble triumph of plundering the secrets of her life. They have long clamored at its gates, long shouted at its windows, in defamation and in glorification. Ready now for their admission, she lets the eager public in; but what they were most intent to find still eludes them. In the "Histoire de ma Vie" are the records of her parentage, birth, education. Here are detailed the subtile influences that aided or hindered Nature in one of her most lavish pieces of work; here are study, religion, marriage, maternity, authorship, friendship, travel, litigation: but the passionate loving woman, and whom she loved, are not here. To the world's triumph they belong not, and we honor the decency and self respect which consign them to oblivion. Nor shall we endeavor to lift the veil which she has thus thrown over the most intimate portion of her private life. We will not ask any Chronique Scandaleuse , of which there are plenty, to supply any hiatus in the dramatis personae of her life... Continue reading book >>