The Story of the Late Mr. Elvesham
A man named Elvesham dies and his nephew inherits his estate. However, it is revealed that the deceased was actually a con artist who had been impersonating someone else for years. The nephew discovers that he has inherited a life of deception and must navigate the consequences of this discovery.
By H.G. Wells · First published 1896 · Genre: Science Fiction, Horror, Psychological Thriller · 8,038 words
First lines
I set this story down, not expecting it will be believed, but, if possible, to prepare a way of escape for the next victim. He, perhaps, may profit by my misfortune. My own case, I know, is hopeless, and I am now in some measure prepared to meet my fate.
What this Textopian page supports
The Story of the Late Mr. Elvesham is listed on Textopian as a novella by H.G. Wells, dated 1896 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novella
- Author: H.G. Wells
- Date: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Science Fiction, Horror, Psychological Thriller, Mystery, Fantasy
- Length: 8,038 words
- Structure: 1 section, 82 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Story of the Late Mr. Elvesham by H.G. Wells
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Story of the Late Mr. Elvesham?
- How does this novella by H.G. Wells fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Science Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Mr Justice Harbottle by J. Sheridan Le Fanu
- By Proxy by Randall Garrett
- What Hath Me by Henry Kuttner
- The Memory Clearing House by Israel Zangwill
- Traumerei by Charles Beaumont
- The Gadget Had A Ghost by Murray Leinster
Genres
- Science Fiction — The story involves a speculative concept of body and memory transfer, a hallmark of science fiction.
- Horror — The narrative explores themes of identity loss and the horror of being trapped in another's body, creating a sense of dread and fear.
- Psychological Thriller — The plot centers on the psychological turmoil and suspense of the protagonist as he grapples with his altered reality.
- Mystery — The story unfolds with a mysterious encounter and the protagonist's quest to understand the bizarre events that have occurred.
Tags
Psychological Fiction · Short Story · Science Fantasy · Time Travel · Memory Loss · Identity Crisis · Paranormal · Supernatural · Mystery · Thriller · Dark Humor · Absurdism