Old and New Masters

by Robert Lynd

"Old and New Masters" by Robert Lynd is a collection of literary essays written in the early 20th century. In this work, Lynd examines the lives and contributions of significant writers, including Dostoevsky, Jane Austen, and others, exploring their impact on literature and their distinct styles. The book likely provides in-depth critical analyses that juxtapose classic and contemporary literary figures, highlighting their thematic similarities and differences. The opening of the work begins with an exploration of Dostoevsky's sensationalism, where Lynd discusses how the author's characters exhibit extreme behaviors often bordering on madness. Intriguingly, Lynd reflects on how Dostoevsky's novels are filled with psychological depth, depicting a world characterized by radical emotions, violent actions, and moral conflicts. Correspondingly, he contrasts Dostoevsky's intense portrayal of humanity with the more genteel narratives of writers like Jane Austen, emphasizing the unique literary landscapes each author creates. This critical approach sets the stage for a broader discussion on the evolution of literary styles and the complexities of human nature as captured by various masters of writing.