Universals - English Letters

The Vampyre, written by J. W. Polidori, is a gothic tale following the adventures of Aubrey, a young English gentleman, and his intriguing travel companion, Lord Ruthven. As they journey through Europe, Aubrey begins to suspect that the charismatic nobleman harbours dark secrets. The story, filled with mystery and a chilling atmosphere, is one of the earliest works to shape the modern literary archetype of the vampire, setting the tone for future tales of horror and suspense.

Enter a magical world where dreams and imagination are linked. The immortal tales of the Grimm Brothers are brought to life through wonderful illustrations, transporting readers to enchanted lands and teaching valuable lessons. Discover the charm of this unique compilation that will delight young and old alike. Embark on a journey of fantasy and surprises with the classics that have captivated generations!

“Romeo and Juliet” is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare early in his career about the romance between two Italian youths from feuding families. It was among Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and, along with “Hamlet”, is one of his most frequently performed plays. Today, the title characters are regarded as archetypal young lovers.

Frankenstein; Or, The Modern Prometheus, a novel known worldwide as Frankenstein, is a pioneering work, considered the initiator of science fiction. Published in 1818 and set in the tradition of the Gothic novel, it explores such topical themes as the morality of science, eternal life and man's relationship with God. Frankenstein is written in epistolary form, which achieves great verisimilitude and closeness to the reader. The story is set in 18th century Europe at the height of the scientific effervescence. The captain of a whaling ship writes to his sister Margaret about his vicissitudes and his encounter with the tenebrous scientist Victor Frankenstein, who, in search of the secret of life and without measuring the consequences that this will bring him, creates a new being with parts of other dead human beings.

Terrible tales are told of Innsmouth, a once prosperous fishing village, but now poverty-stricken. The cause of the degradation is blamed on an epidemic that came from a ship and mercilessly struck the town. However, evil tongues speak of pacts with the devil. Few people venture to travel to the village, as many foreigners have not returned after traveling to Innsmouth. Nevertheless, the protagonist of this story, a traveler in search of his family origins, is attracted to the town and decides to visit it on his way to his final destination. But, to his misfortune, he is forced to spend the night in the town. Will he be prepared to learn the town's macabre secrets?

"Carmilla" is a gothic novel that tells the story of Laura, a young woman who lives isolated with her father in a countryside mansion. One day, a mysterious young woman named Carmilla arrives at their home after an accident. As they get to know each other, Laura feels a growing attraction toward Carmilla, who begins to display strange and unsettling behaviors. The strange occurrences in the mansion seem to be connected to the enigmatic guest. Soon, Laura discovers that Carmilla is a vampire who feeds on her vitality, unleashing a series of terrifying events. Through this chilling tale, J. Sheridan Le Fanu explores themes of desire, passion, and death, creating an atmosphere of horror and mystery. "Carmilla" is one of the earliest works that influenced modern vampire literature.

“The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin (1771-1790)” is the name given to the unfinished autobiography of Benjamin Franklin, one of the most influential founding fathers of the United States of America. Unpublished during his lifetime, the first edition of 1791 was in French and based on an imperfect transcription. Franklin's grandson then published the book in English in 1818, but not only did he miss a portion, but he also made revisions to his grandfather's work. Finally, in 1868, John Bigelow acquired the original manuscript and published the first accurate version, on which this edition is based. Throughout his life, Franklin was not only a politician, but also a printer, scientist and inventor.

Enjoy the immortal story of Scrooge, written by Dickens and published in 1843 with the original illustrations. Adapted to film and other formats on numerous occasions, “A Christmas Carol” is a moral story that has become part of classical Western culture and makes an excellent gift for those who are not yet familiar with Dickens's prose. Scrooge is a person who hates Christmas and everything related to it, but one day something will happen that will show him a valuable lesson.

Oscar Wilde's talented pen tells the story of one man's decline. It is a book considered the most moral of immoral stories. This work has earned its author to overcome the description of a writer and be considered almost as a philosopher. Dorian Gray in exchange for eternal youth delivers his soul and ends up being corrupted by the evil influence of his mentor. Highly recommended for readers of all times and geographies. The fantastic richness finds its most appropriate expression in a luminous and refined style, and the paradox governs and regulates matter and word, scene and dialogue, Wilde tries to show the transfiguration that art operates on reality.

“The Great Gatsby” is one of the most recognized texts by Francis Scott Fitzgerald, considered a classic of American literature, whose exquisite work maintains all its relevance and freshness. Gatsby, the gentleman who reigns over West Egg, the host of the restless nights, but also the winner marked by the tragic fate of an unintended loneliness, is the archetype of those twenties that began with Prohibition and ran through the gangsterism and organized political corruption. Protagonist of a decade that would culminate in the catastrophe of 1929, his image of splendor does nothing but announce an inevitable drama. “The Great Gatsby” has been made into films, with great success and popularity.

In the year 2073, the world as we once knew it has vanished. A devastating plague, known as the Scarlet Plague, has wiped out civilization, leaving only a handful of survivors who now wander through a desolate and primitive landscape. James Howard Smith, an elderly man who lived through the days before the catastrophe, recounts his story to his grandchildren, offering them a window into the past and the rise and fall of humanity. In a setting where nature has reclaimed its dominance, Smith struggles to impart the lessons of the past to a new generation that can barely comprehend the magnitude of what has been lost. Jack London takes us on a profound journey through time and memory, exploring the fragility of civilization and the resilience of the human spirit. With his powerful and evocative narrative style, The Scarlet Plague is a haunting reflection on survival, memory, and the future of humanity.

Alice is bored. Suddenly, a white rabbit, dressed in pants and a bag, desperately looking at his watch, announces he's getting late somewhere. Alice can't resist and follows the path towards her burrow, a kind of tunnel that leads the girl to an amazing universe.