How Long to Read The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq

How Long Does it Take to Read The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq?

It takes the average reader 6 hours and 9 minutes to read The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq by Eugene Francois Vidocq

Assuming a reading speed of 250 words per minute. Learn more

Description

Eugène François Vidocq (1775-1857) was a French criminal who became the founder and first director of the crime-detection Sûreté Nationale as well as the head of the first known private detective agency. Vidocq is widely regarded as the father of modern criminology and of the French police department. He is also considered to be the first private detective. Vidocq's successes as an investigator inspired many Victorian authors who borrowed his brilliance to embody their fictional heroes. The character of Sherlock Holmes is very much based on Vidocq; so are both Jean Valjean and Inspector Javert inLes Miserables. Dickens mentions Vidocq in Great Expectations; Melville cites him in Moby Dick; and Poe refers to Vidocq's methods inMurders in the Rue Morgue. As a player in the criminal underworld, Vidocq was a master of disguises and an accomplished thief, eventually turning his unlawful talents toward catching criminals as the first chief of secret police. Playing both sides of the law, Vidocq's life highlights the blurry line between law enforcement and the criminals they pursue. He has a knack for finding trouble throughout his topsy-turvy life, getting into one hot situation after another, often finding himself behind bars, only to escape the first chance he gets. In December 1828, Vidocq published his Memoirs, with the help of some ghostwriters. The work became a bestseller and sold over 50,000 copies in the first year. His book takes the reader on a whirlwind tour of 1830s France, including the circus stage, pirate ships, prison cells and beautiful women's boudoirs. Vidocq's life story is unforgettable and includes some of the best crime stories and juicy tales ever written. Out of print for many years, this newly revised edition of the Memoirs features a dynamic translation that brings this captivating autobiography to life for modern readers. "He preferred the tumultuous life of danger to the contentment of security. His story is one long swashbuckling adventure as he breaks out of jails, pursues actresses, duels to the death, raids the hells of criminals and stalks the Paris night in a thousand disguises." (Philip John Stead, Vidocq: Picaroon of Crime)

How long is The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq?

The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq by Eugene Francois Vidocq is 358 pages long, and a total of 92,364 words.

This makes it 121% the length of the average book. It also has 113% more words than the average book.

How Long Does it Take to Read The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq Aloud?

The average oral reading speed is 183 words per minute. This means it takes 8 hours and 24 minutes to read The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq aloud.

What Reading Level is The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq?

The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq is suitable for students ages 12 and up.

Note that there may be other factors that effect this rating besides length that are not factored in on this page. This may include things like complex language or sensitive topics not suitable for students of certain ages.

When deciding what to show young students always use your best judgement and consult a professional.

Where Can I Buy The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq?

The Memoirs of Detective Vidocq by Eugene Francois Vidocq is sold by several retailers and bookshops. However, Read Time works with Amazon to provide an easier way to purchase books.

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