Author
Laurence Sterne
1713-1768
Laurence Sterne (1713-1768) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by Laurence Sterne
The life and opinions of Tristram Shandy, gentleman
"The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman" by Laurence Sterne is a humorous novel published from 1759 to 1767. The work purports to be a memoir, but narrator Tristram doesn't reach his own birth until the third volume. Through endless digressions, he recounts four accidents that doomed him to misfortune while depicting conflicts between his irritable father Walter and gentle Uncle Toby. The novel features sexual innuendo, unfinished sentences, and surprising visual elements including blank pages and censored paragraphs, transforming Sterne from obscure clergyman to literary celebrity.
A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy
"A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy" by Laurence Sterne is a novel published in 1768. It follows the Reverend Mr. Yorick, a character from Sterne's earlier work, on a picaresque journey through France told from a sentimental perspective. The fragmented narrative explores the connection between sympathy and sexual desire through encounters with monks, shop girls, and fellow travelers. Written in response to declining interest in Tristram Shandy, the novel blends travel writing with emotional intensity, leaving readers to question whether Yorick's extreme feelings are sincere or satirical.
The Journal to Eliza and Various letters by Laurence Sterne and Elizabeth Draper
"The Journal to Eliza and Various letters by Laurence Sterne and Elizabeth Draper" is a collection of correspondence written in 1767. In the final year of his life, the married clergyman Laurence Sterne developed an intense emotional bond with the young Elizabeth Draper. Their public affection sparked gossip in London society. After just three months together, Draper departed for India, and they never met again. They exchanged letters and kept private journals meant for each other's eyes. Most of their correspondence vanished, leaving behind only fragments of a passionate relationship that influenced Sterne's final novel.
Oeuvres complètes, tome 4
"Oeuvres complètes, tome 4" by Laurence Sterne is a novel likely written in the early 19th century. This volume contains the fourth part of "The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy," which captures the whimsical and philosophical musings of the titular character. The narrative takes readers on a journey filled with humorous reflections on life, death, and the peculiarities of human nature, illustrating Sterne's unique approach to storytelling. The opening of the book introduces an engaging scene where Tristram Shandy, traveling by post, encounters a destitute old man and his dog. As Shandy reflects on generosity and the trials of travel, he inadvertently observes the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty. The narrative highlights Shandy's internal conflicts over societal indifference and his attempts to grapple with his emotions, setting the tone for a deeper exploration of human sentiments and relationships throughout the stories that follow. This early segment lays a foundation for the humor and philosophical insights that characterize Sterne's work, making it a compelling read for those interested in classic literature that intertwines wit with profound commentary.
Oeuvres complètes, tome 6
"Oeuvres complètes, tome 6" by Laurence Sterne is a collection of letters and sermons written in the early 19th century. This volume highlights Sterne's correspondence with a character named Eliza, revealing deep emotional connections, philosophical musings, and reflections on life. The letters exhibit a blend of passionate friendship and intellectual discourse, while the sermons deal with themes of happiness, virtue, and the human condition. The opening of the book introduces readers to the intense and affectionate letters of Yorick addressed to Eliza. Yorick expresses his admiration for her intelligence and character while also conveying concern for her health and well-being. The letters are filled with sincere declarations of friendship and care, alongside playful references to their significant connection. Within this correspondence, Yorick navigates the themes of love, virtue, and the challenges of life, setting the stage for the deeper philosophical insights found throughout the volume.
Oeuvres complètes, tome 2
"Œuvres complètes, tome 2" by Laurence Sterne is a novel written in the early 19th century. The book continues with the second part of "The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy," exploring themes of familial relationships, identity, and the absurdity of life through humorous and satirical narrative. It features the eccentric narrator Tristram Shandy, his father Mr. Shandy, and Uncle Toby, who add a unique charm and depth to the unfolding story. The opening portion introduces key characters such as the comical Doctor Slop, who is preparing for the birth of Tristram. The narrative is interspersed with lively dialogue and philosophical musings, particularly on the roles and opinions of the characters involved in childbirth, revealing Mr. Shandy's peculiar views regarding the influence of names on one's destiny. The scene captures a mix of anticipation and chaos, setting the tone for the witty exploration of life and existence that Sterne is known for, establishing a nuanced backdrop for Tristram's reflections.
Oeuvres complètes, tome 3
"Oeuvres complètes, tome 3" by Laurence Sterne is a literary work, likely a novel, written in the early 19th century. This edition contains the third part of the remarkable narrative "The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy," which engages with themes of identity, family, and the nature of storytelling through a humorous and digressive approach. The book often features the experiences and musings of its protagonist, Tristram Shandy, alongside members of his eccentric family. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to Tristram's father, who is embroiled in the perplexities of inheritance and the implications of a significant legacy left by Aunt Dinah. His father grapples with choices about how best to utilize the money, oscillating between personal desires and familial responsibilities. Through humorous and philosophical reflections, the story illustrates how his indecision leads to complications in their lives, highlighting the overarching theme of the absurdity of human existence and the challenges of choice. Tristram's narrative voice sets the stage for a rich, entertaining exploration of life's dilemmas, humorous character interactions, and the nature of storytelling itself.
Oeuvres complètes, tome 5
"Oeuvres complètes, tome 5" by Laurence Sterne is a collection of literary works written in the early 19th century. This volume includes "Le Voyage sentimental," which reflects Sterne's unique narrative style interwoven with humor and philosophical musings. The text focuses on the experiences of the main character, Yorick, as he journeys through France and encounters various individuals, each contributing to his reflections on human nature and society. The opening portion introduces the protagonist, Yorick, as he embarks on a journey to France, setting the stage for an exploration of societal norms and personal introspection. As he engages in conversations and reflections, Yorick grapples with moral dilemmas and social critiques, particularly regarding generosity and human connection. His interactions with a poor monk and a mysterious lady in Calais reveal his sensitivity to the plight of others, while also showcasing the comedic and sometimes absurd nature of his travels. This initial scene hints at a narrative that balances wit with deeper philosophical inquiries into love, kindness, and the existential experiences of travelers.
Oeuvres complètes, tome 1
"Œuvres complètes, tome 1" by Laurence Sterne is a collection of literary works, likely penned in the early 19th century. This volume contains both biographical elements about Sterne himself and the first part of his notable work "Tristram Shandy." The collection explores themes related to authorship, identity, and the nature of narrative while offering insights into Sterne's life and his innovative literary style. The opening of the volume serves as an introduction to Sterne's life, detailing his upbringing, his modest clerical career, and the factors that contributed to his rise as a renowned author. It recounts his struggles with obscurity and his eventual success with "Tristram Shandy," which garnered both acclaim and criticism, indicating the author's complex relationship with fame. The narrative delves into the peculiarities of Sterne's character, his literary ambitions, and the whims that inspired his distinctive, digressive storytelling style, setting the stage for a work rich in humor and insightful commentary on human nature and society.
A Political Romance
"A Political Romance" by Laurence Sterne is a satirical pamphlet published in 1759. This allegorical work transforms a bitter church career dispute into a comic village squabble over used clothing. Written to support his patron in an embarrassing ecclesiastical rivalry, Sterne's sharp satire was so effective that the Archbishop of York demanded all copies be burned. Though suppressed immediately after publication, this first venture into fiction proved a turning point: at age 46, Sterne discovered his gift for humorous writing and soon began his celebrated novel "Tristram Shandy."
Das Leben und die Meinungen von Herrn Tristram Shandy
"Das Leben und die Meinungen von Herrn Tristram Shandy" by Laurence Sterne is a humorous novel published from 1759 to 1767. The narrator Tristram attempts to tell his life story but gets endlessly sidetracked by digressions, not even reaching his own birth until volume three. Through comic mishaps and domestic conflicts between his irritable father and gentle Uncle Toby, Sterne creates a wildly experimental work filled with sexual innuendo, visual tricks like blank and marbled pages, and playful parodies that transformed him from obscure clergyman to literary celebrity.