The novel centers on the eponymous protagonist, a quintessential Victorian gentleman known for his physical prowess, masculine virtues, and impassive demeanor. He navigates the upper echelons of society with a mix of disdain and detachment, engaging in various adventures that often involve duels, athletic competitions, and romantic escapades. Despite his apparent success and the admiration he garners, the protagonist grapples with a sense of ennui and the superficiality of the world around him. His story is a reflection on the ideals of manhood and the pursuit of personal fulfillment within the constraints of Victorian social mores.

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