Set subclass of object when parent class is constructed (dynamic sub-classes)?

Like already said elsewhere, ctors do not return, so you cannot do that. And ctors should not query the database anyway, because that would be doing work . If you cannot/want not create the correct subtype immediately via DataMapper or Repository you can use a State Pattern.

You cannot choose what to return from a constructor, but you can take your hierarchy as is (Person is of unknown gender, Male and Female are known) and use something like this pattern.

I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.