The Castaway: Three Great Men Ruined in One Year—a King, a Cad and a Castaway

A novel written in the early 20th century. The story likely revolves around themes of loss, redemption, and the exploration of turbulent lives, focusing particularly on the character George Gordon, a peer who is grappling with the consequences of his past and the complexities of his identity amidst a backdrop of personal struggles and societal expectations. The opening of the novel introduces George Gordon as he wakes on a Greek beach, reflecting on the contrasts between his adventurous life and the societal roles he has distanced himself from in England. Here, he is portrayed as a poet caught between passion and disillusionment, as he contemplates his love for Greece and its struggles under Turkish rule. As Gordon engages in poetry, he is suddenly jolted into action by the realization that a woman is in danger, leading to a dramatic moment that sets the stage for the exploration of his character and the larger narrative of the novel. The interaction between Gordon and his companion, John Hobhouse, reveals insights into Gordon's past, his intellectual pursuits, and the reputation he carries with him, hinting at a deeper journey of self-discovery and conflict ahead.