The Market-Place

Name: The Market-Place
Author: Harold Frederic

By Harold Frederic

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British Literature Novels

About This Book

The narrative follows a businessman, Thorpe, who suddenly acquires wealth and constructs a public company, recruiting a decorated but pliant board, brokers, solicitors, and auditors while navigating the financial press, blackmail threats, and social pretenses. Scenes alternate between board-room strategy and domestic moments with his sister, revealing anxieties about status, reputation, and the mechanics of promotion and advertisement. The work examines the moral and practical compromises of speculative enterprise, the performative use of titles and connections, and the tensions between private insecurity and public triumph as the protagonist manages contracts, credit, and appearances.

About the Author

Harold Frederic

Harold Frederic was an American author and journalist known for his insightful explorations of social issues and human psychology. Active during the late 19th century, he contributed significantly to American literature with works that often reflect the complexities of life in contemporary society. His notable novel, "The Damnation of Theron Ware," delves into themes of faith and doubt, showcasing his ability to intertwine personal conflict with broader societal commentary. Frederic's other works, such as "Seth's Brother's Wife" and "Gloria Mundi," further illustrate his keen observations of human relationships and the cultural landscape of his time.