~ 1845 ~
"The Count of Monte Cristo" is an adventure novel by French author Alexandre Dumas and one of his most popular works. Set in France, Italy, and islands in the Mediterranean during the Bourbon Restoration and reign of Louis-Philippe of France, the story follows Edmond Dantès, falsely accused of treason and imprisoned without trial. He escapes and finds a cache of treasure, later returning to society as the powerful and mysterious Count of Monte Cristo to avenge himself. The book is an adventure story centrally concerned with themes of hope, justice, vengeance, mercy, and forgiveness and is considered a literary classic today.