Ex Sardanapalus by John Arthur Barry

Name: Ex Sardanapalus
Author: John Arthur Barry

The novel revolves around the life of a young nobleman who becomes embroiled in a plot to overthrow the corrupt and tyrannical ruler of his kingdom. As he navigates the complexities of court politics, he must confront his own moral ambiguities and decide where his loyalties truly lie. The story is set against the backdrop of a decaying empire, where power struggles and corruption have created an atmosphere of fear and mistrust. The protagonist's journey takes him from the opulence of the palace to the poverty and desperation of the streets, forcing him to confront the harsh realities of his world. Throughout the novel, themes of morality, loyalty, and the nature of power are explored in depth. The author raises questions about the responsibility that comes with privilege and the consequences of actions driven by ambition rather than principle. Ultimately, the novel is a commentary on the human condition, highlighting the complexities and contradictions that define us all.

By John Arthur Barry · First published 1867 · Genre: Adventure, Sea Fiction, Drama · 6,244 words

First lines

‘Make it eight bells! Go below, the starboard watch!'

A few minutes later, and eight men sat on eight sea-chests, looking hungrily across at one another. Between them lay an empty meat-kid.[1] In a box alongside were some biscuits, black and honeycombed with weevil-holes. Dinner was over in the _Sardanapalus'_ fo'c'stle, but still her starboard watch glared hungrily at each other.

What this Textopian page supports

Ex Sardanapalus is listed on Textopian as a novella by John Arthur Barry, dated 1867 CE.

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Work type: Novella
Author: John Arthur Barry
Date: 1867 CE
Language: English
Genres: Adventure, Sea Fiction, Drama, Humor, Realism
Length: 6,244 words
Structure: 1 section, 122 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Similar titles

Genres

Adventure — The narrative revolves around the experiences of sailors on a ship, highlighting their struggles and camaraderie during a sea voyage.
Sea Fiction — The setting is primarily on a ship, focusing on maritime life, the challenges faced by the crew, and the dynamics of life at sea.
Drama — The story explores interpersonal conflicts, the hardships of the crew, and the emotional responses to their dire circumstances.
Humor — The dialogue and situations often contain elements of dark humor, particularly in the crew's banter and their reactions to their predicaments.