The complex characters. For example, in 'The Grifters' by Jim Thompson. The con artists in these novels are often very complex individuals. They have their own motives, desires, and sometimes a code of ethics that is unique to them. This makes them more than just simple villains. They are often charming and intelligent, which makes it interesting to see how they interact with their victims and the world around them. Also, the plots usually involve a lot of twists and turns as the con artists try to outsmart everyone around them.
The mystery. In con artist novels, like 'The Confidence Man' by Herman Melville, there's always the mystery of how the con will play out. You're constantly on edge, wondering who will fall for the trick.
The exploration of human nature. Many con artist novels delve deep into human nature. Take 'The Blunderer' by Patricia Highsmith. They show how easily people can be deceived, and how greed, desperation, or simple naivete can make someone a target. They also explore the darker side of the con artist's psyche, what drives them to deceive others. This exploration of the human condition is what makes con artist novels so engaging and thought - provoking.
Well, for one, they need to be highly intelligent. They should be able to think on their feet and come up with elaborate lies quickly. For example, like the character in 'Catch Me If You Can', he was able to create false identities with ease.
Well, an interesting con artist comic usually has a complex web of characters and their motives. Also, the element of surprise and unexpected turns make it engaging. The art style can enhance the experience too, if it conveys the mood and tension well.
The perseverance in the best artist story is inspiring. Artists often face rejection, like van Gogh who sold very few paintings during his life. But they keep creating, believing in their vision. This shows that one should not be deterred by lack of immediate success.
Well, for a comic villain to be a con artist, they often have a smooth-talking charm and the ability to think on their feet. They come up with elaborate schemes and know how to play on people's emotions and weaknesses to pull off their cons.
The story of Charles Ponzi is also a well - known con artist story. He ran the famous Ponzi scheme. He promised investors high returns in a short time by using new investors' money to pay off the old ones. People were lured in by the seemingly easy money. It wasn't until later that it all came crashing down. There's also the case of Anna Sorokin who conned New York's elite. She pretended to be a wealthy German heiress and managed to get luxury accommodation, expensive meals, and loans from banks and individuals.
Well, sometimes it's because the con artist has a complex backstory that makes us sympathize with them. Or maybe their actions lead to unexpected positive outcomes. Also, the way they're depicted artistically can make them charming and interesting despite their flaws.
A great con artist female character in romance novels often has exceptional charm. This charm allows her to easily draw people in and make them trust her. For example, like the character in 'The Artful Deceiver', she can make any man believe she is in love with him just by the way she bats her eyelashes and speaks softly.
One of the most well - known is Professor Henry Higgins from 'Pygmalion' and its musical adaptation 'My Fair Lady'. He manages to 'con' Eliza Doolittle into changing her entire way of speaking and behaving through his rather manipulative teaching methods.
Well, 'The Confidence Game' by Maria Konnikova is quite popular. It offers an interesting look into the world of cons.
It could be the unique martial arts concepts it presents. Maybe it has really cool fight scenes and a great story about a martial artist's journey to the top.