How to Read The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

📚 Read The Count of Monte Cristo with Hardcore Literature: / hardcoreliterature
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0:00 why read The Count of Monte Cristo
2:30 how to choose the right translation
4:00 on the Robin Buss Penguin translation
5:00 the influential anonymous translation
6:00 Buss’ approach to translating Dumas
9:00 translation comparison taste-test
13:00 the first readers of Alexandre Dumas
14:00 on the story’s serialised publication
15:00 the benefits of delayed gratification
17:00 the golden age of serial literature
18:00 Monte Cristo’s publication history
19:00 Alexandre Dumas’ writing process
20:00 collaborators in the fiction factory
21:00 Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet
21:30 Alexandre Dumas’ historical frames
22:30 how to pace your reading of this book
24:00 how to appreciate great storytelling
25:00 studying popular imaginative literature
26:00 the influence of romance stories
27:00 on Classicism vs Romanticism
28:00 protect yourself from plot spoilers
29:00 why do we read great literature?
30:00 how to befriend Alexandre Dumas
31:00 meeting the great writer’s father
32:00 on Napoleon and French History
33:00 inspiration from the real life Monte Cristo
35:00 Dumas’ love of Shakespeare’s Hamlet
36:00 how Dumas originally began the story
37:00 relating to the pain of Edmond Dantès
38:00 appreciating the character of Abbé Faria
39:00 how to bring yourself to the story
40:00 on the themes of revenge and justice
42:00 on the power of communal reading

[@brianhaas1154]

"Even though it's over 1200 pages, we don't want the story to end." Facts!!

[@jp1170]

Im just over 200 pages into the Robin Buss translation and its tremendous. For years and years I was almost exclusively a non fiction reader (history, biography mostly) but for the last couple years or so ive been ticking off all of the “classics”. Im so happy I found The Count of Monte Cristo.

[@mawalir937]

Same here, switched from non-fiction to fiction. My language writing skills and vocabulary were degrading.

[@floristijdink2513]

Same here! Any other classics worth recommending?

[@jp1170]

@@mawalir937 the best non-fiction writers have no problem keeping your vocabulary skills greased!

[@jp1170]

@@floristijdink2513 im reading The Brothers Karamazov and Wuthering Heights right now as well. Very very good

[@matthewturner2803]

@@jp1170 Gibbon certainly expands your vocabulary.

[@pascalrouen]

Just finished this novel for the first time, and it is now arguably my favorite novel ever written. An indisputable masterpiece of the highest caliber. Highly recommended to every single person. Do not let the length scare you, as you will actually wish it had another 1,200 pages to continue the story by the time you finish. This book became like a dear friend to me, and I began to savor every chapter - its characters became as real as the people in my life. Every detail is put to great use, and not one detail is out of place. The middle section of the book may seem slow at times, but know that every detail is there for a specific reason that will be made evident in the finale - the final 400 pages roar to life like an unstoppable locomotive barrelling down the tracks with increasing speed. This novel has everything you could possibly imagine, and more - crime, murder, theft, death, life, soaring ecstasy, immovable sorrow, endless adventure, allegory and allusion - especially to Christ and the Bible, mystery, hope, and love. It is the human experience of the roller coaster of life summed up in 1,243 pages. Read the full unabridged Penguin edition translated by Robin Buss. You won't regret it.

[@brodiiie]

As a 19 year old reading this for the first time i was honestly quite struck by the line that mentions that Dantès enters prison at 19 and escapes at 33. I had to pause for a minute and really think about that, it was honestly kind of terrifying to think about. Also I’m only about 250 pages in and I’m loving it!

[@Giraffe27]

I first read this when I was 19 and now I’m reading it again at 27. It’s so wild to think that Ed has been imprisoned this whole time

[@kimbarbeaureads]

I am much older than you, but I think that is the perfect age to read it. I don't know if I would have appreciated it when I was your age though. You are ahead of me. 😂

[@paladin1726]

The best book I’ve ever read. It will keep getting better

[@thomaslowry7079]

Time erases and filters what we read in childhood. All I can remember from my first reading of the Count of Monte Cristo in junior high school is being very inspired by the idea that prison could actually provide a time and place to read and study and improve oneself despite all the hardships. I remember really thinking about what I would do if I were to ever find myself in prison with lots of time on my hands. I can't wait to read The Count of Monte Cristo again to find out how it affects me sixty years after that long ago first reading!

[@ProfessorBopper]

Growing up, I loved the 2003 movie, and picked the novel up as an independent reading book in sophomore English class. Despite dyslexia, I devoured the book in two weeks. Reading The Count of Monte Cristo and Murakami’s After Dark back-to-back for that class is what made me love literature. I don’t know which translation I read, but I’m kinda hoping it’s the older one so I can read the Buss translation and love the novel even more!

[@jaye2491]

The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky is my favourite novel ever, but depending on my mood at the time, The Count of Monte Cristo is often my second favourite. It's just the perfect adventure, and you just want to keep reading it! Absolutely love the channel like usual mate, you do a great service for many lovers of the classics 😎

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Beautiful choices for your favourite novels, my friend! I'm so with you on Dumas' story being the perfect adventure. And thank you so much for your kind words and for watching! I really appreciate you 🙏😊

[@rozaganser3016]

I have dyslexia and never thought I could read such a great book. I am about half way through and loving it. Your videos are an inspiration to me. Thank you.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Roza! I'm so happy to hear that. That's amazing! You should be incredibly proud of your accomplishment!! 🙏☺️

[@samidalao3071]

One of my favorite books of all time. Don't be intimidated by its gargantuan size, it's worth the effort. By the way, Robin Buss' translation was immensely enjoyable.

[@patcounts867]

Just started reading The Count of Monte Cristo on a serialized schedule. It’s a perfect fit with my work schedule and gives me time to read other things as well. Thanks for the insights!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That's so awesome! The story is even more powerful when you follow the original serialised publication schedule. Happy reading, my friend! :)

[@Fakaza850]

Sir, I came to know abt you through YT but I accidentally fell into your Quora account as well and read your answers which you wrote long ago. Loved them(just how optimistic they were that the best fact behind a Literary Connoisseur was such a positive man😭.) I have the least liking for YT but now I watch your superbly explained videos extending my screen time. Especially your "How To Read". I wish I knew that before reading Crime And Punishment And Great ExpectI. Love them all! Also, I saw your blog and saw an article on "How To Read Bhagavad Gita". The fact that your literary interests are so wide-ranged enthralled me (plus I'm a Hindu so it kinda made me happy too that you are cognizant of it). , I've always felt that Indian literature and all have been always underestimated by the world. The Panchtantra Tales, Hitopadesha, works of Kalidas, Rabindranath Tagore(Nobel laureate!) etc are too much neglected. And sir, I would also love to know your top (5, 7 or 10) favourite authors and your favourite work of theirs in a video if you can 😄. I hope I don't sound like an immature boy but I feel so overwhelmed when I see relatable, understandable and humble literary geeks. Lots of Appreciation and Admiration for what you are doing, sir 🖤🤌✨

[@janmariolle]

Beautiful comment. Thanks for dropping some suggestions of great Indian writing. You may enjoy the Hardcore Literature book club. I joined after watching Benjamin’s YT videos. I felt a kindred spirit and decided to take a chance and joined in. Benjamin’s lectures are very thoughtful and inspiring. There are some throughly well read people in the group, and others like me who are not scholars, working folks, finally with a bit of free time to challenge the mind with new ideas, or simply love a great story. I cherish the range of comments which pop up after a lecture. If you enjoy the YT videos, you will love the lectures at the book club.😢

[@paladin1726]

“If the thing were to do again, I would again do it”. It’s a masterful use of the English language, so much more beautiful than the modern usage. IMO with the anonymous version, you’re treated to far greater beauty in the turn of a phrase. More so, the manners expressed at that period of time, while they may be dated today, would’ve been accurate then. So why would you not want accuracy? It was the dialogue, just as much as the story, if not more so, that made me fall in love with the Count of Monte Cristo, and consider it, along with Pride and Prejudice, among my favorite books. Probably my favorite book.

[@readlikeaman]

Dude! I literally just finished this book a month ago but after watching this video I’m about to throw out my current reading plans and just start it again! ;P Exceptional job as always my man! My favorite part of this recent read was sharing it with my wife. We had so many great discussion during the course of reading and were both enamored with how engaging the story was and how you truly don’t ever want it to end. I read the Robin Buss translation (Amazing!) and it was the shortest 1,200 pages I’ve ever delved into. Also, one of the coolest things I’ve encountered since then was in the book Do Hard Things by Steve Magness. He mentions something called Post Traumatic Growth Syndrome (PTGS) which is the opposite of PTSD and this idea that truly traumatic things (ie. Being imprisoned for a crime you didn’t commit!) can actually be catalysts to foundational transformation in our lives and end up changing us into something far greater than we could have ever become without the disguised blessing of the challenge. Absolutely great reminder that no matter how bad the circumstances are, your mindset and response ultimately determine whether they break you or make you into something greater.

[@stuart2010ification]

Roughly how long did iy take to read the whole book?

[@readlikeaman]

@@stuart2010ification just about five weeks. Maybe could have gone a little faster but I was reading and discussing with my wife along the way so we tried to stay pretty neck and neck with where we were at in the story to avoid spoilers :)

[@christyleskovar4384]

Fabulous book. Read it years ago. Late nights. Hard to put it down. Just one more chapter, then another, then another…

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I completely relate to that!

[@captain_cloudd]

Man i missed your channel so much, I've probably seen every video of yours + most episodes of the podcast I'd just like to thank you for your Ulysses video (and everything else), it helped me so much. I learned to be humble towards the book and not expect to understand everything, and I think I'm in a lifetime commitment with Joyce now. I've just finished Oxen of the Sun, which was by far the hardest but absurdly brilliant. It's my favorite book of all time already.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That is so kind of you to say. Thank you so much :) I really appreciate you watching and listening, my friend. And I’m so happy that you’ve fallen so deeply in love with Ulysses. Joyce’s masterpiece is a lifelong journey for me too. Truly an inexhaustible work right there!

[@MilesWilliams88]

I've had a copy sitting on my shelf for a few years. I really need to read it. I've heard basically nothing but great things about it. It was my Grandfather's favorite book.

[@evasliteraryparlour]

I started this novel today, and I haven’t been able to put it down. It’s so addictive! Your comments about the translations are very pertinent. I’m not a native French speaker, but I’m reading this book in French, and the style is very accessible for the reader. The vocabulary and prose style are simple. I wouldn’t go with an archaic translation if I were to read it in English. Enjoy the book!

[@thefool8750]

I’m just starting the book myself, I happened upon a copy in a charity shop so I had no choice of translation but so far I’ve been enjoying it! I’m only on chapter V, but it’s been fun so far! I hope I won’t miss out on too much from not reading the Buss version, but I’m confident that greatness will transcend translation and I’ll still have a blast!

[@rodicacretu1030]

Dumas, the father, is a master of suspence. I am 1/5th in the book, and I admire the way he recounts, as in a spiral, past events, the elegant way in which he frazes a sentance in order to use the past of the subjunctive, the fact that he describes the face's features and cloths only of the important characters. Thank you for making the list of the 50 books, the must read ones.

[@paultaylor1814]

This is a great book, very different from the 2 movie adaptations of it that I've seen, one with Richard Chamberlain as Edmund and the other with James Caviezel as Edmund and Henry Cavill as Mercedes's son.

[@Joseph_Mineo]

I just recently finished reading Monte Cristo (in the Buss translation) and, although it took me a very long time, it has become one of those books that are near and dear to me. The character of the Count of Monte Cristo has become one of my favorites and I reckon anyone who reads this work will understand why (provided you have the time to dedicate to this absolute brick).

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so thrilled to hear that. The Count of Monte Cristo is a personal favourite character of mine too. I think this is a book that can be life-changing for many people, especially anyone going through a difficult, formative period!

[@Gorenovas]

Hi, I am reading my first English book, while learning the language with the Count of Monte Cristo. I hava read it so many times in Spanish that I almost know the dialogues of the story. I was watching your video about your book edition recommendation,and is the same Penguin&Robin Buss and that gave me some tranquility about my choice about the book. All this because it is not so easy to find the book en English, unless in latioamerica countries where I have been.

[@andreluissoriano]

I just finished reading this! And as usual with literature I go to your video of it to know all the surrounding things about the book. Marvelous and thanks for the vid, as always! I really enjoyed the book. I felt the power. I may not be as emotionally drawn into it as I expected, but it doesn't change the fact that this book is epic and will always be a classic.

[@ahnmensch3115]

I've always had a very different experience with this novel compared to others; as you said, some people see it even as children's literature! I cannot relate to that thought. To me, the tragic life of Edmond Dantes deals deeply with the human condition and all the surrounding characters offer lots and lots of insight into how people deal with existence. It's so much more than just an adventure story that kids can enjoy.

[@pavithrasrinivasan4459]

After seeing this video, I could not wait to re-read this book. “Live! Because the day will come when you will be happy and bless life.” These words by Count to Morrel from the book has been of huge importance to me personally. I recite it often. Only some books can touch you and make a big impact on you, this book is one such.

[@marcbodow3178]

I finished reading this great work several months ago. Readers beware! You might well find yourself neglecting what you ought to be doing while immersing yourself. This read is truly an addiction.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so with you there! Fiendishly addictive stuff :)

[@marcbodow3178]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy Thank you for your kind comment. I love your site. I just wish that I had more time to read. I am overwhelmed with my work as a forensic physician.

[@rachelbrown9816]

Started this as part of hardcore lit club and wow - this book is completely enthralling. What a read so far ❤❤

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so happy you're enjoying it so much :) It really is captivating, isn't it? I'm absolutely loving our read-through of it together ☺️

[@sk8linz121]

Please take this as a compliment: I'd absolutely LOVE more frequent content from you! Both on your podcast and here on YT. I'm a huge fan, and always love hearing about great classic novels/ reading strategies, etc. No one talks about it like you do! Keep up the great work

[@kevindavis3234]

Timely! I just finished a reread of this one! I went on a Dumas kick in the 8th grade, but I haven't reread anything aside from 'The Three Musketeers' since then. I remember enjoying the story, but it's so much more complicated than I remember. Shades of Hamlet, The Odyssey, and (of course) Sinbad. Reading it as an adult, it really did feel like I was reading it for the first time. I'm sure I'll be revisiting it again at some point.

[@lesterstone8595]

I think you would enjoy reading The Black Tulip which is also by Dumas. It's shorter and also deals with revenge. I love it as much as the Count of Montecristo.

[@kevindavis3234]

@@lesterstone8595 Hey, thank you! I've never read it (and maybe never even heard of it). I will definitely check it out, though. Appreciate the recommendation!

[@neverbored]

I read this book 5 times (in russian). Planning to read it in English for the first time. Thank you for tips on translation.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That's so cool! I hope you enjoy your first read of the English version! I'd love to know how it translates into Russian!

[@philipmason5547]

The Robin Buss translation was what I read a few years ago, and it was incredible, perhaps the finest book I read that whole year. It gave me a deep love for Alexandre Dumas. I also really enjoyed his introduction. But the Oxford translation’s antiquated character was pretty pleasant, reads beautifully, and I wonder if it’s more true to the original.

[@quickstep145]

It's good to see you back Benjamin. I want to thank you for getting me into reading again. I went through some difficult times and could not even open a book. The Count of Monte Cristo, a classic that I would definitely enjoy reading. 🙏.

[@carlatate7678]

I bought this book in a charity shop today solely because of you! I've already read Moby Dick this year, I thought that would be my longest novel this year...

[@samaafaiz6523]

You provide such a rich and real feedback for us at which help our picks to improve it goes without saying that reading not only evolve our comprehension, but also broaden our writing patten rather than stuck to just simple styles jot down notes or complex structure quite beneficial .Thanks for this overview keep going I'm looking forward to anew videos about different books.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, my friend! I really appreciate that 🙏☺️

[@johnmooney9403]

Excellent review of The Count of monte Cristo. I read this novel last year it is a truly a magnificent work of literature. Thanks for the analysis Benjamin.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much :) I'm thrilled you loved it so much!

[@brodylockwood14]

I have never read this book and after hearing so much about it I think I'm going to give it a go. It'd be my first true classic book.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so happy to hear that! I'd love to know what you make of it :)

[@AdamMalster]

What a well-timed video. I have been listening to this for my morning commute for the past few months. I'm about two third's through. I've decided to take a bit of a break because I have a long vacation coming up when I am travelling a lot. I could keep listening through that time but I find that my reading works better if there is a physical location for each text (car, bedroom, the park outside work...) and a break feels correct at the moment. However, when I go back to this, your video will help me do so more inspired and with more knowledge.

[@theemeraldingot6327]

Quite possible the biggest coincidence in all my time online, but my order for the Count of Monte Cristo arrived not but two days ago, and I’m currently on page 83. I had no idea you were going to drop this video, but I’m not at all complaining!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That is a fantastic coincidence! You must be enjoying it if you’re already over eighty pages in! ☺️

[@SchizoaffectedGamer2112]

I started reading a little late, actually. I just read Don Quixote, In Search of Lost Time, House Of Leaves, and now on to The Count Of Monte Cristo.

[@habitshare]

Love Duma's Three Musketeers so The Count of Monte Cristo was on my next to read list for quiet some time. Your video made me actually start it. Had no idea its more of an adventure kind of tale, but I guess all his books has some kind of adventure in them. :-)

[@colinjbanks]

Thanks for the recommendation, Benjamin. On chapter 5. The plot is all coming to place and also the likely reason for the book being mentioned in the film The Shawshank Redemption. Andy Dufresne was wrongfully imprisoned due to the murder of his wife. Many parallels including a prison escape.

[@marianapgar4409]

You have read my mind - I have the book sitting right here (the unabridged Penguin Classics paperback) - it's part of my upcoming reads. This video of yours will serve as the perfect complement to my reading experience. Thank you so much, Ben!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I’m thrilled that you have the unabridged version sitting right there! You’re in for a wonderful adventure :) I’d love to know what you make of it!

[@marianapgar4409]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy I certainly will let you know! :-)

[@avivd8905]

I cannot believe it I started reading it yesterday (for the first time, have no idea what it is about nor what to expact) and I just stumbled upon this video unexpectedly (I am a subscriber for a year but didn't notice you uploded the video). What a perfect timing! Cannot wait to read it, it's probably going to take me a while (only 2% in so far, reading it on my e-book reader), but I have been wanting to read it for years (btw sorry for my English).

[@DanExploresBooks]

A top 5 book of all time for me. I remember going to a movie of it after and absolutely was repulsed by what they did with this amazing book. I love the first quarter of it and think it should be enough for people to know if it is for them or not. I can't sing enough praises for this book.

[@captainnolan5062]

Fantastic video. I just ordered the Robin Buss translation. Thank you for posting this! I tried a poor translation in the past; consequently, I consider this my first reading.

[@JGR27]

Glad to find this video. The Count of Monte Cristo is one of my favorites and I first read it in my 20's (I am now in my 70's) and couldn't put it down. My own personal copy is a 4-volume set that's quite old and I've gone through it a few times. Your video convinced me to get a copy I'll feel comfortable writing and underlining -- has to be unabridged, though. The abridged version I borrowed from the library left too many things out that I loved.

[@RidleyJones]

I think a good director and writer could do an amazing modernized take on this, as a gritty urban thriller movie with Edmond as the revenge-seeking antihero. It's such a timeless story.

[@paladin1726]

I watched the Guy Pierce movie and it made me not interested in reading the book. It was the Orson Welles Mercury Theater adaptation that renewed my interest. Since reading, I’ve looked for movie and serial adaptations and there are none that capture the true essence. Most seem loosely based, and I think with Monte Cristo, Dumas doesn’t insert anything that isn’t necessary. There’s one series that almost comes close enough to nearly satisfy, but falls way short.

[@rizzyknows]

I read this book when I was 25 for the first time and even do this day this is the best book I have ever read.

[@lizgonzalez491]

I read it last year. I loved it! I had to read The Three Musketeers afterwards.

[@jackiesliterarycorner]

I'm rereading it, but I forgot you were planning on reading it for the Hardcore Literature book club. I loved the 2002 adaptation with Jim Caviezel and Guy Pearce. Listening to an audio book version helped me read it the first time.

[@Kiki-zu9ip]

Your videos motivate me to read more classics. I recently purchased The Tale of Genji, the newest translation into modern Japanese by Mitsuyo Kakuta (Japanese is my native language), and am looking forward to start reading that. Have you finished reading it? I remember you mentioning before that you were reading 1 chapter/mo or something like that. I just added the Robin Buss translation of The Count of Monte Cristo to my wishlist. I'm a slow reader especially in English but I will get to it!

[@NeonRadarMusic]

Bought my copy a few weeks ago and I'm certainly excited to read it now. Great video as always. I've always wanted to know, have you ever acted in any form? Your voice modulation while reading out these books is spectacular.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm so happy to hear that! I would love to know what you make of it :) And thank you so much for the kind words! You've absolutely made my day. I did a little bit of acting school a very long time ago, but I've been doing podcasts for a good few years now so I've managed to get a fair bit of reading practice in. It's a dream of mine to do some narrations of classic literature in the future!

[@NeonRadarMusic]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy You absolutely should. I'd love to hear them.

[@CurtRowlett]

Your channel should be required viewing for anyone who loves books and reading. You inspire me to want to read more and to reread old favorites. Thank you.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much, Curt. That is so incredibly lovely of you to say. You have completely made my day 😊 🙏

[@graceyao2838]

really love the pictures and photos you choose and show, thankyou

[@Handy_Manny-lw1ub]

I just picked up a copy of the Buss translation. I cannot wait to tear through this adventure

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Happy reading, my friend. I hope you love it!

[@mangalapalliv]

Thanks a lot for including this book in the 2023 reading list. Robin Buss's translation is fabulous. Enjoying myself !! A request: Would like to read Three Musketeers after this ... what would the recommended translation be for that book....?

[@Roland96351]

I'm about half way through and it is exquisite, fascinating, and terrifying.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I'm thrilled you're enjoying it!

[@katm8128]

What timing! I was just about to start this and I see this video. Thank you so much

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

You're so welcome! Thank you for watching :) I'd love to know what you make of this great book!

[@burge2695]

Loved this book to pieces..I've been pretty lazy reading classics this year 😢...im too into fantasy and science fiction lol...but i have read frankenstein and wuthering heights both 5🌟 reads! I'm hoping to get two more done before the end of the year...i know little dorrit will be my next read...and either gone with the wind or les miserable

[@RichPal_]

I also have just started this book the other day, better than I expected. What timing !

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Nice one! Fantastic timing. I’m so happy you’re enjoying it :)

[@Messihaz]

Benji covering my favorite book of all time. Truly made my day

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much for watching, my friend :) I'm so thrilled that this is your favourite!

[@abhradas6433]

Will surely give this novel a read. However can you please recommend the best translation of Kafka's works???

[@severianthefool7233]

You’re the man, Ben. I’m reading Moby Dick atm and rereading Blood Meridian, and sprinkling in Keats on the side. All of which are very much inspired by you and your channel. Was very sad to hear that Cormac passed away Did you ever read the Gormenghast books?

[@richardfairley9882]

Might I recommend reading this back-to-back with Dosteovsky's 'Crime and Punishment'? Thus contrasting a tale of an innocent man with that of a guilty man...

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That would make for a truly profound pairing! Fantastic advice!

[@VictorAugustus]

Great video! on Dumas' father I really recommend the History Dose video - Napoleon and the Legendary Black General Thomas-Alexandre Dumas.

[@shilohpeterson5307]

One of the best books ever! Was intimidated when I started it but by the end it felt too short

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I completely agree!! :)

[@MasterMote]

man do you do voice narrations for entire books? cuz if you did id definitely listen, you have a great voice and are great at narrating. probably doesnt hurt that you're very familiar with the material(obviously im understating that)

[@vuvuzela691]

I'd love for you to do a video on your opinions of the Booker prize winners of the past 10-15 years!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I've actually been wanting to do that for a while! :)

[@LeeRichardson808]

I happened upon the a very new Penguin Classics copy at Goodwill for 2 bucks yesterday. Came here to get my bearings. Thanks so much!!

[@jaxorz]

what a fantastic video. i put the buss translation down after around 600 pages a few years ago and i am now ~700 pages through a reread, it only gets better with time. many small moments at the beginning of the story are contextualized by later events, most likely owed to dumas’ original intention to have the novel begin at what is now chapter 31. that does bring up an interesting point though, i wonder if the story would be ‘better’ if he adhered to that initial plan? i think there is an argument to be made that the reader not knowing the count’s backstory during his introduction in paris could possibly make the payoff a little more impactful, but i still love the way it was written. one thing that i don’t love is how lost i can get in the weeds of french history, so many allusions are completely lost on me and i have a very rudimentary understanding of even the largest world events in the early 19th century. almost any time dumas name drops a writer from antiquity i just chalk it up as a loss because i don’t have time to research every small reference in this behemoth 😂

[@brentwilliamson8642]

I relate deeply to the remark that we know a work has touched us significantly when we are sad when it ends. So far this year, I felt that way at the end of W&P. I was ready for both Karamozov and Orlando to end LOL. Those will require rereads on my part. I hope not to be thrown to the lions as a Plebian when I say one of my very favorite novels is IT by Stephen King. I have read it three times and every time I cry at the end because I can't believe it's over and my time with those characters has come to an end.

[@Whatever_Happy_People]

Hullo Ben I have just finished the hunchback of Notre Dame brilliant book. Peace and happy reading to you.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Congratulations on finishing! Fantastic book :) Peace and happy reading to you too🙏😊

[@rustlingtrees8987]

I'm currently reading the story in German and as far as I can tell, the translation is great. Most editions are abridged though, some are about 500pages shorter (they are still 900 pages long, because German translations are always longer and some people don't seem to notice that it is abridged). Anyway, it is a great book and I'm enjoying it a lot

[@medsm3113]

I just finished it using the Oxford world's classics bc I couldnt find the other one...but if I ever reread it, I'll do it using the Robert Buss translation! I enjoyed it anyway. Read it with two friend over 2 months ~ we started at the begining of August and finished yesterday :D having with whom to discuss, surely helped.

[@sadsack8319]

Simply the greatest novel I've ever read. There is too much to describe. One month of my life, I will cherish forever. Whoever has read this knows.

[@kirillzotin1983]

Thinking of starting to read Monte Cristo for the first time in not so distant future, once I am done with some Dostoyevsky novels. Regarded as a great adventure novel, I expect it to be gripping, which is something that I like a lot when it comes to reading.

[@BarefootContessa72]

Reading this currently and really enjoying it

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I’m so happy to hear that! :)

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

@@kaiftintoiwala6414It’s not too difficult :)

[@akilireynolds5082]

i'm a reading this right now .i was looking for videos that would help me understand the history during it time.strange coincidence.

[@LuvLuke954]

I’m loving Briggs ed. of War & Peace and was worried I’d be setting myself up with going straight for all things Penguin Black Classics. But I’m so happy for this video. It solidifies my choice. I don’t know which translation I read the first two times but I’m so excited to read it again.

[@stuart1346]

Does this apply to the 3 musketeers aswell? Which is the best translation of that, as in done in a similar style to robin buss rather than the archaic language?

[@nayankhan3799]

I really I understand what you said man. I try to read meditate by Marcus Aurelius . I had to change 5 books to find the best translation. And I enjoy the book I love your channel 💗. Damn where have u been till now haha

[@ManuelaK-ec3rm]

Thanks for your awesome bookreviews! This comment is intended for people who prefer to read in Dutch (I prefer to read a good Dutch translation, because I am Dutch). I would like to share which translation I chose: De graaf van Monte Cristo - vertaald door Jan H. Mysjkin. This translation makes the book the page-turner it should be.

[@gilbertoflores7397]

What is your opinion on manga? When you described Dumas' work schedule, it immediately reminded me of mangakas, who are on weekly deadlines and constantly don't get enough sleep, and sometimes have teams helping them get their installments out on time. There is currently a long running series that could possibly recreate the experience of reading an important pieces of human storytelling. One Piece, there is a ridiculous community surrounding it, discussion of it, and huge fandom surrounding it. I am a fan of the series, but always want to know what someone with a more literature based background thinks of it. I enjoy it, but a lot of the fandom will die on the hill of it being the greatest story ever written. I'm not sure it's that great, and that those people probably don't read much, but it's still a good adventure story that can possibly give you a sense of that idea you're saying you'd like to experience.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I developed a ferocious manga addiction when I lived in Japan. That was about a decade ago now and my love for the art form has remained strong :) One Piece was actually my entrance to the world of manga! I remember bringing a bunch of volumes back to England with me as a present for my sister and she fell in love with the story too. Your parallel with serial novelists like Dumas is absolutely perfect. I've sadly seen many of my favourite series go on hiatus because the industry and the artist has worked themselves too viciously. I really wish they would look after themselves better. Personally, I think manga is a compelling, exciting, and beautiful storytelling art form with an incredibly rich tradition and I have enormous admiration for it! I'm currently on a bit of a Takehiko Inoue kick and I'm rereading Vagabond, and, my goodness - such breathtaking stuff!

[@gilbertoflores7397]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy I think with the passing of Kentaro Miura. Many of the arist, took it to heart and have been taking their health very seriously. I've recently felt like lots of the big series' mangaka take more breaks than they use to do in the past. Would there be a chance you would cover something like manga? I am positive it would immediately pick up popularity and blow you up futher, for some reason One Piece, which wasn't ever that popular in the west, has finally caught on, and lot of people are interested in it. Personally, it was just what I read after the other two series, Bleach and Naruto, series I felt more of a connection to growing up, ended. One Piece is great, but in terms of its story, I feel frustrated sometimes, as the series has been long running, and almost no real answers have been provided. The best way I've viewed the series is the author is employing many styles of writing to build up something that possibly can't deliver on everyone's expectations. You said, people dread getting to the end of a great story, because the journey is too great. However, could it be that we dread getting to the end, and not feeling satisfied? I believe you mentioned loving the Sopranos before, and that ending was very polarizing. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the series. Or if you'd do some analysis of it, I find a lot of the people who make those video essay/analysis of the series don't have the best literary background and can be a little excessive of the genius of the series. I sort of have a bit of a literature background, studying it in university. I enjoy the series, but not like everyone who is a fan of it, so I usually like to know what others who also have an appreciation for both manga and literature thinks of the series. Vagabond is great. I was a huge fan of Berserk, and Hajime no Ippo is one of the most enjoyable reading experience. I think I understand what you described about consuming a story in installments, and just wanting to follow the characters on their journey for as long as I can.

[@deadpoet9392]

I'm reading it and it's an amazing novel ❤❤❤I'm in loveeee

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

I’m so thrilled you’re loving it! ☺️

[@deadpoet9392]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy Thanks 🙏 how can I join your book club?

[@littlefelix]

One day I watched the 2002 adaptation of the book. But I turned it off after Edmond got out of prison. It was the first time I knew about the story, and I was so captivated I wanted to read the book to enjoy it more. When I was young, I bought a newspaper (for teens) every month, so I could read short stories and chapters of thriller books written by young writers. I almost forgot that burning excitement these days. This book wasn't in my reading plan for 2023 but from what I saw in the movie, I thought it would be a perfect book for me to return to the serialized form (I bought myself the Penguin Classics copy a while ago). Thank you for the guidance, Ben. I'll ask my friends to buddy-read with me. Can't wait to explore it!

[@ruthnewton2579]

Brilliant. Thank you so much.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you for watching! :)

[@milkawickramasinghe164]

I had read half of the book and stopped for a while because it's so big. Thanks for the motivation to restart my reading of this book.

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

You're so welcome! Thank you for watching :) I hope you enjoy it!

[@sealisa1398]

Fantastic story about what goes around comes around.

[@samyaghosh5558]

Hello Benjamin! Love your suggestions and your deep love for Literature. I have recently gotten back to reading more consistently and wanna tackle some of the big classics now (till end of the year). Any suggestions 3-4 books that I should definitely pick up? I definitely wanna read A Tale of Two Cities as it’s been on my shelf for ages

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you for your kind words, my friend. I'm thrilled to hear you want to tackle some big classics. I love the fact that you want to read A Tale of Two Cities. So that's your Charles Dickens sorted :) In addition to that, I would recommend Victor Hugo's Les Misérables, Leo Tolstoy's Anna Karenina, and George Eliot's Middlemarch. You will have an amazing reading year with those four. If you feel like there's room for one more, I would suggest throwing a little bit of Thomas Hardy in there with Tess of the d'Urbervilles!

[@samyaghosh5558]

@@BenjaminMcEvoy Some amazing recommendations. Thanks you so much!

[@samyaghosh5558]

This video has now inspired me to take on The Count of Monte Cristo as well. Swapping that with Les Miserables for the year :)

[@bjwnashe5589]

Excellent presentation!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much!

[@Josh-yk6xk]

This is one of the few books I have put aside but loved the first 150 pages. I would love to re attempt it at some point. I was reading the anonymous translation…

[@lesterstone8595]

It's crazy how everyone is saying they just started or just finished this novel. I'm in the latter group, and I loved it and the Black Tulip. However, I'm on the fence about the Corsican Brothers. ♥♥

[@joshjohnson3347]

If I wanted to have a general grasp on the Napoleonic period of France, both on the era itself and more about Napoleon, what books would you recommend?

[@JabbyMayoCD]

In that translation comparison, I greatly preferred the older translation as it feels far more poetic and epic in a way. That said, I will probably read the Buss translation first for better comprehension.

[@reemtageldin7367]

Hey Benjamin, thank you for the tips! I wanted to give you a book suggestion and if you read it then please let us know your thoughts on it. It's Season of Migration to the North by Tayeb Salih. A sudanese writer. He has other novels as well but this is his longest and most popular. Thanks💖

[@alanstamey9279]

This is my favorite book!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

That's awesome! It's definitely one of my favourites! Incredible work :)

[@DeadNetCord]

Thank you Benjamin

[@kimbarbeaureads]

I am listening to the audiobook read by John Lee. I couldn't find what translation he's using, but he is a fantastic narrator so it has been very compelling. It makes for a lousy bedtime story though. I haven't gotten much sleep because I want to know what happens next. Lol

[@JayJay-sf2wn]

Love your videos!

[@BenjaminMcEvoy]

Thank you so much! 🙏☺️

[@dannycadwallader6503]

Hello and thank you for so many amazing videos. Just a question on “the black count” will it be full of spoilers . And or would you read it after or before the “ the count of monte cristo”. Many thanks. And thank you for giving a middle aged man all this literature after years of letting dyslexia win.