The Count of Monte Cristo

The Count of Monte Cristo is an adventure novel by French author Alexandre Dumas completed in 1844. The story takes place in France, Italy, and islands in the Mediterranean during the historical events of 1815 - 1839: the era of the Bourbon Restoration through the reign of Louis-Philippe of France. It begins just before the Hundred Days period (when Napoleon returned to power after his exile). The historical setting is a fundamental element of the book, an adventure story primarily concerned with themes of hope, justice, vengeance, mercy, and forgiveness. It centers around a man who is wrongfully imprisoned, escapes from jail, acquires a fortune, and sets about getting revenge on those responsible for his imprisonment. However, his plans have devastating consequences for the innocent as well as the guilty. In addition, it is a story that involves romance, loyalty, betrayal, and selfishness, shown throughout the story as characters slowly reveal their true inner nature.

This work is in the public domain, and therefore has been identified as being free of known restrictions under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights.