Meet the charming rogue who stole France’s heart in ‘Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Thief’, and read the complete collection online for free.
First published in 1907, Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Thief (original French title: Arsène Lupin, gentleman-cambrioleur) is the debut collection that introduced the world to Maurice Leblanc’s iconic anti-hero. Arsène Lupin is not a common criminal; he is a genius of disguise, a master of deduction, a connoisseur of art, and a man of impeccable taste and wit who targets the corrupt rich and the arrogant with a playful, Gallic flair. Operating under a strict personal code of honor—he never kills, often helps the innocent, and occasionally rights social wrongs—Lupin is as much a social critic as he is a thief.
This first volume contains nine delightful short stories that establish the Lupin formula. We witness his audacious heists, his clever escapes from the baffled police (especially the persistent but outclassed Inspector Ganimard), and his charming interactions with his targets. From stealing a priceless Jewish lamp from a heavily guarded mansion while announcing his intent in advance (“The Arrest of Arsène Lupin”), to solving the mystery of a missing fortune from his prison cell (“The Escape of Arsène Lupin”), each tale is a compact masterpiece of puzzle-box plotting and stylish bravado. Lupin is the antithesis of the grim, brooding detective; he is a celebrant of life, intelligence, and adventure, making his crimes feel like exhilarating performances. This collection launched a literary and cultural phenomenon that would rival Sherlock Holmes in popularity across Europe.
On this page, you can be introduced to the original gentleman-thief. We offer the complete 1907 collection for online reading.
Book Info
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Thief |
| Author | Maurice Leblanc |
| Year of Publication | 1907 |
| Genre | Mystery, Crime Fiction, Adventure, Short Stories |
| Language | English (Translation from French) |
| Legal Status | Public Domain in the U.S. (Published pre-1928) |
| Format | Online Reading |
[Read Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Thief Online]
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About Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Thief
Leblanc created Lupin at a time when detective fiction was dominated by the logical, serious Sherlock Holmes. Lupin provided a French counterpoint: equally brilliant but infused with romance, humor, and a rebellious spirit that celebrated individuality and style over mere law and order.
The Character of Arsène Lupin
Lupin is a cultural archetype. He is a self-made aristocrat of crime, born with the name Raoul but having reinvented himself. He is fluent in multiple disciplines—chemistry, law, history, martial arts—and uses this knowledge to execute flawless plans. His most defining trait is his panache: his joy in the game, his respect for worthy adversaries, and his irresistible charm. He is a thief who leaves his victims admiring him.
The Narrative Voice and Style
The stories are told with a light, ironic touch, often from the perspective of a bewildered narrator or the frustrated authorities. The prose is elegant and brisk, focusing on the clever mechanics of the plot and Lupin’s witty repartee. The tone is one of amusement rather than menace, making the crimes feel like delightful intellectual sport.
The “Fair Play” Mystery
While Lupin’s identity is known, the mystery lies in the “how”: How will he pull off the impossible theft? How will he escape the inescapable prison? Leblanc plays fair with the reader, planting clues that allow the astute to follow Lupin’s reasoning. The pleasure is in watching a master at work.
Social Commentary
Lupin often targets the nouveau riche, corrupt aristocrats, and greedy bankers. He presents himself as a redistributor of ill-gotten wealth and a rectifier of injustice (often keeping the loot for himself, of course). This Robin Hood aspect, combined with his disdain for the clumsy, brutal police, made him a populist hero.
Inspector Ganimard: The Worthy Foil
Ganimard is the Javert to Lupin’s Valjean, but with a grudging respect. He is dogged, competent, and occasionally captures Lupin, but is always ultimately outwitted. Their relationship is a playful cat-and-mouse game, with Lupin often sending Ganimard helpful—if mocking—tips.
Foundational Stories
Key tales in this collection include: “The Arrest of Arsène Lupin” (establishing his bravado), “Sherlock Holmes Arrives Too Late” (an unauthorized, controversial crossover), “The Queen’s Necklace” (a historical caper), and “The Escape of Arsène Lupin” (showcasing his intellect from behind bars).
Cultural Impact
Arsène Lupin became a national icon in France, symbolizing intelligence, style, and resistance to authority. The character has spawned countless film, television, comic book, and stage adaptations, most recently the hit Netflix series Lupin, which testifies to the character’s enduring, modern appeal.
Why Read Arsène Lupin, Gentleman-Thief Today?
It is pure, undiluted fun. In an age of dark, gritty anti-heroes, Lupin offers a refreshingly joyous and clever alternative. The stories are perfectly paced, ingeniously plotted, and brimming with charm. They are the literary equivalent of a perfectly executed magic trick: you know you’re being fooled, but you can’t help but applaud.
FAQ
Is Arsène Lupin like Sherlock Holmes?
They are two sides of the same coin: both geniuses who solve puzzles. Holmes is the ultimate detective, Lupin the ultimate criminal. Holmes is analytical and detached; Lupin is emotional and engaged. Leblanc even wrote several parodic crossovers pitting them against each other (with Holmes renamed “Herlock Sholmes” for legal reasons).
Are the stories connected, or standalone?
This first collection is mostly standalone short stories that establish the character and his world. Later novels (The Hollow Needle, 813) would develop longer, more serialized plots and deeper lore about Lupin’s past and his secret kingdom.
Is there romance?
Lupin is a great romantic, and love interests (often the beautiful daughters or wives of his targets) appear frequently. He is gallant and chivalrous, but his true love is always the adventure itself.
How did the character evolve?
Over dozens of stories and novels, Lupin evolved from a pure gentleman-thief into a more patriotic figure (during WWI), a defender of France, and even something of a detective himself, solving mysteries that baffle the police.
Can I read it on my phone?
Absolutely. The short story format is ideal for reading in quick, satisfying bursts on any device. Each story is a complete and thrilling adventure.