Character
Character, published in 1871, is the sequel Samuel Smiles wrote to his famous Self-Help. Where the earlier book praised industry and perseverance, this one argues that character, the moral order of a life, matters more than talent or success, and illustrates the claim with hundreds of anecdotes from the lives of soldiers, statesmen, scientists, writers and obscure working people. Its twelve chapters treat the influence of character, the power of home and of mothers, companionship and example, work, courage, self-control, duty and truthfulness, temper, manner, the companionship of books, marriage and the discipline of experience. Smiles writes plainly and quotes constantly, and the book was read across the English-speaking world. The full text is available to read online in your browser on Vinteuil, and the first chapter is free.
Start reading right away, without signing up. The complete text is included in Vinteuil Reading, or yours forever with a one-time purchase.
Frequently asked questions about Character
Character by Samuel Smiles can be read online on Vinteuil, directly in your browser. The first chapter is free for everyone; the complete book is included in Vinteuil Reading ($4.99/month or $39.99/year) or yours forever for $2.99.
Can I read Character online?
Yes. Character opens right on this page, in a reader designed for long reading: adjustable text size, light, sepia and dark themes, a clickable table of contents and your place saved when you are signed in. No download or app is needed.
Is Character free to read on Vinteuil?
The first chapter of Character is free, without an account. To read the whole book, either buy its online reading for $2.99 (£2.99 in the UK) and keep it forever, or subscribe to Vinteuil Reading for $4.99/month (£4.99/month in the UK) or $39.99/year, with 1 month free for new subscribers. The subscription opens every book in the library and can be cancelled at any time.
Is Character in the public domain?
Yes. Character by Samuel Smiles is a public-domain work. Vinteuil offers a carefully prepared digital edition made for comfortable reading on screen.
How long does it take to read Character?
About 7 h 53 min of reading, at an average reading pace. Your place is saved automatically when you are signed in, so you can read in several sittings and on several devices.
What kind of book is Character?
Character by Samuel Smiles is filed under "Philosophy" in the Vinteuil library.
