Jacques Lantier, the "human beast" of the title, has a hereditary madness and has several times in his life wanted to murder women. At the beginning of the story he is an engine driver, in control of his engine "La Lison". His relationship with "La Lison" is almost sexual and provides some degree...
About a gypsy who earns a living as a dancer in cheap barracks. Homeless, her performance is documented by a young and talented but largely unsuccessful composer. Before he dies, he leaves the gypsy dancer his artistic legacy, a previously unpublished composition. A little later, she becomes the...