Doctor Claudius

<p>Doctor Claudius A True Story is a novel by F. Marion Crawford first published in 1883. Francis Marion Crawford was an American writer known for his many novels especially those set in Italy or featuring supernatural elements.</p><p></p><p>The novel follows the life of the titular character Dr. Claudius a Swedish philosopher and scientist of noble birth who finds himself entangled in the social and romantic intrigues of European high society. The story blends elements of romance adventure and philosophical reflection typical of Crawford's style.</p><p></p><p></p><p>At the time of its publication the novel was well-received for its engaging plot and sophisticated writing. Modern readers might find it a charming if somewhat old-fashioned tale of love and adventure. Crawford's works have seen a revival among fans of classic literature and Gothic fiction.</p><p></p><p></p><p>About the Author</p><p></p><p>Francis Marion Crawford (1854-1909) was a prolific American writer best known for his numerous novels and classic weird and fantastical stories. Born in Italy he spent much of his life abroad particularly in Italy which became the setting for many of his works.</p><p></p><p>Crawford was born in Bagni di Lucca Italy the only son of American sculptor Thomas Crawford. He received a diverse education studying at St. Paul's School Cambridge University the University of Heidelberg and the University of Rome. In 1879 he traveled to India where he studied Sanskrit and edited the Allahabad Indian Herald. Upon returning to America he continued his Sanskrit studies at Harvard and contributed to various periodicals.</p><p></p><p>His literary career took off with the publication of his first novel Mr. Isaacs (1882) which quickly achieved success. This was followed by Doctor Claudius (1883). In 1883 he returned to Italy where he resided permanently eventually purchasing and remodeling the Villa Renzi which became Villa Crawford in Sant'Agnello. He also wrote historical works including Ave Roma Immortalis (1898) and The Rulers of the South (1900).</p><p></p><p>Crawford was incredibly prolific producing some forty novels and a play. At the height of his career his books outsold those of any other contemporary fiction writer in England or the United States. He died in 1909 in Sorrento Italy.</p><p></p>