The American by Henry James AUDIOBOOK

Henry James’s The American is a sophisticated and emotionally layered novel that explores the cultural tensions between the Old World and the New. First published in 1877, this classic work follows Christopher Newman, a wealthy and self-assured American businessman who travels to Europe in search of art, refinement, and a wife.

In Paris, Newman falls in love with Claire de Cintré, a beautiful young widow from an aristocratic French family. However, his courtship is met with resistance from her traditional, class-conscious relatives, who view the self-made American as unworthy of their noble lineage. As Newman confronts the rigid codes and hypocrisies of European high society, he must decide whether to compromise his values—or remain true to his independent spirit.

With its blend of romance, satire, and psychological insight, The American is both a critique of European elitism and a celebration of American individualism. Henry James masterfully examines themes of cultural identity, personal integrity, and the cost of belonging in a world driven by appearances and legacy.

This audiobook captures the elegance of James’s prose and the depth of his characters, offering a richly rewarding listening experience for fans of literary fiction, historical drama, and timeless tales of love and conflict across cultures.

Audiobook time & format : 13h52m32s, WAV, 2.23 Go

Audiobook free extract time & format : 5m (see below to listen), WAV

Instant Access After Checkout - Professionally Generated Audio