A Novel Trifecta

The Count of Monte Cristo details the empathetically human tale of struggle, loss and revenge. The literary nuance lies in the foil to these values; the audience also enjoys a journey of self-improvement, systems and goals thinking, as well as, a concept the Japanese refer to as ikigai.

The three novels I see embedded within Alexandre Dumas' The Count are

• Atomic Habits
• 48 Laws of Power
• Paradox of Choice

The protagonist also acknowledges releasing oneself and being in the here and now, two pillars of the concept of ikigai.

Atomic Habits

I cite the first chapter of the book by James Clear as it resonates strongly with Edmond's trials. James introduces the concept of a valley, where disappointment lies. We become discouraged after not seeing results from our efforts.

He calls it the Plateau of Latent Potential.

But in order to make a meaningful difference, habits need to persit long enough to break through this plateau-

Personally, I fight with the absence of a six-pack of abs despite my efforts. There's a solution to this escaping this pit, which Clear highlights. First, let's explore the issue keeping Dontes and I.

Goals restrict your happiness.

The problem with a goals-first mentality is that you're continually putting off happiness off until the next milestone.

The solution?

Your commitment to the process will determine your progress. Nowadays, I celebrate sharing to my blog, as it validates my identity as a writer, creative and aesthete.

Edmond Dontes represents a very human parable of self-improvement.

48 Laws of Power

To exact his plan of revenge, Dontes also studies academic matters. Primarily speaking, he studies economics, philosophy and literature. However, additionally, he displays a vague understanding of influence, as if he read Robery Greene's 48 Laws.

^{Thanks to @kryptik for the book recommendation.}
Dontes does several things that give the impression he may've even read this text:

1. Create Compelling Spectacles
2. Re-create Yourself
3. Court Attention At All Costs

I presumed in his fit of righteous fury, we might see an otherwise unhappy end for Dontes. Incredibly, his peers appeal to his reason - something I feel few 'friends' truly do for us in this life.

Paradox of Choice

While I'm dubious Dontes read any of Schwartz, writing Barry does illustrate quite simply the problem our protagonist faces within his tale.

maximizing versus satisficing

Without oversharing, the betrayal of a supposed friend lands Dontes in his predicament, which he admirably rises up from. However, hatred fills the poor boy's heart, and he remains fixed on recompense for his adversarial 'brother'.

One course could satisfy his burning urge, yet his truer companions warn him. The other flies in the face of his greatest ambition, revenge.

The choice he makes, I invite you to learn for yourself, dear reader, for Alexandre Dumas' novel nor its movie adaptation are things you oughta miss.