Identity and Mistaken Identity

Identity and Mistaken Identity appears as a literary theme in 5 works in the BetterReads curated set. Each book develops the idea in its own plot, voice, and historical moment — the links below open the book-scoped theme guide beside the text.

The narrative revolves around Jimmy Crocker adopting the alias 'Bayliss' to conceal his true identity from Ann, who despises his reputation as 'Piccadilly Jim,' leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and revelations about who people really are.

Characters are frequently misidentified or assume false identities, such as Felix's use of a fake address, the black-bearded man's disguise, and the confusion over who is the real criminal.

The entire plot hinges on the confusion between two sets of identical twins, leading to characters being mistaken for one another, questioning their own identities, and experiencing a world where they are both known and unknown.

Khlestakov, a lowly clerk, is mistaken for a powerful inspector general, and the entire town's behavior is based on this false assumption, showing how identity is constructed by others' perceptions and fears.

The central plot revolves around Rudolf Rassendyll impersonating the King of Ruritania due to their striking physical resemblance, exploring themes of selfhood, deception, and the conflict between one's true nature and assumed roles.