Subject
English fiction -- 18th century Books
Best books
Samuel Johnson
Shorter novels, vol. 3 : $b Eighteenth century
"Shorter Novels, Eighteenth Century" by Johnson, Beckford, and Walpole is a collection of classic novels written during the later years of the eighteenth century. The volume includes notable works like Johnson’s "Rasselas", Walpole’s "The Castle of Otranto", and Beckford’s "Vathek", showcasing a mixture of philosophical reflection, Gothic terror, and Oriental fantasy. The collection illustrates a key transitional period in literature, where traditional themes began to give way to the emotions and imaginations celebrated in Romantic literature. The opening of the book introduces "Rasselas, Prince of Abyssinia", which centers on Prince Rasselas, who lives in a paradise-like valley but grows discontented with the pleasures and comforts of his life. Despite the lavish lifestyle provided to him and his siblings, Rasselas has an insatiable yearning to explore the world outside, leading him to reflect on the nature of happiness. His growing melancholy sets the stage for his eventual quest for meaning, as he grapples with existential questions about fulfillment and the human condition.
Frances Chamberlaine Sheridan
Memoirs of Miss Sidney Biddulph Extracted from her own Journal, and now first published
"Memoirs of Miss Sidney Bidulph" by Frances Chamberlaine Sheridan is a novel written in the early 18th century. The story chronicles the life of the titular character, Miss Sidney Bidulph, as she navigates societal expectations, familial obligations, and personal trials, particularly in relation to her relationships and moral integrity. The novel introduces an array of characters who influence Sidney's life, including her mother, Lady Bidulph, and her brother, Sir George, who all play pivotal roles in her journey of self-discovery and resilience. The opening of "Memoirs of Miss Sidney Bidulph" sets the stage for a structured reflection on morals and relationships through the perspective of Sidney herself, who begins by reflecting on her close bond with her friend, Cecilia. The narration unfolds with a preface by an editor, providing insight into Miss Bidulph's background and circumstances. As Sidney expresses her concerns about her pending separation from Cecilia and her thoughts on her family dynamics, readers are introduced to an array of themes, such as duty, love, and the complexities of friendship. The foundation of her character is laid as she grapples with the impending changes in her life, setting the tone for the challenges she will face as the story progresses.
Eliza Fowler Haywood
The Fortunate Foundlings Being the Genuine History of Colonel M——Rs, and His Sister, Madam Du P——Y, the Issue of the Hon. Ch——Es M——Rs, Son of the Late Duke of R—— L——D. Containing Many Wonderful Accidents That Befel Them in Their Travels, and Interspersed with the Characters and Adventures of Several Persons of Condition, In the Most Polite Courts of Europe. the Whole Calculated for the Entertainment and Improvement of the Youth of Both Sexes.
"The Fortunate Foundlings" by Eliza Fowler Haywood is a fictional narrative likely written in the mid-18th century. The novel explores the intertwined lives of twins Horatio and Louisa, who were abandoned as infants and adopted by a benevolent gentleman named Dorilaus. The story unfolds around their upbringing, ambitions, and the various misadventures they face in pursuit of social status and love, particularly as they navigate the complexities of their origins and relationships within the genteel society of Europe. The opening portion of "The Fortunate Foundlings" introduces the story's main characters, Dorilaus, Horatio, and Louisa. It begins with Dorilaus discovering the abandoned twins and choosing to care for them, treating them with exceptional kindness and nurturing. As the narrative progresses, we learn about the affection he develops toward them as they grow up, particularly their education and aspirations, setting the stage for future conflicts. The twins' distinct paths begin to diverge as Horatio expresses a fervent desire to join the army, while Louisa's journey intertwines with Dorilaus's deepening affections toward her, complicating their familial bond. The complex emotions and societal expectations create an engaging foundation for the unfolding saga of their lives.
Unknown
The life and adventures of a cat
"The Life and Adventures of a Cat" by Henry Fielding and William Guthrie is a fictional narrative, likely written in the mid-18th century. The story revolves around the character of Tom, a cat with a remarkable life marked by various trials and tribulations, as well as humorous escapades. Through Tom's adventures, the book explores themes of cleverness, survival, and the complexity of feline nature. The opening of the tale sets the stage for a whimsical exploration of the characteristics and sagacity of cats, asserting their superiority over other animals through philosophical musings. It introduces Tom's birth from a lineage of poor but noble cats, detailing the chaos surrounding his early life that sees him lose his siblings and endure hardship in a world where cats must navigate human affairs. As the narrative unfolds, witty commentary and irony permeate the story, painting a rich image of Tom's exploits and the peculiar societal traits surrounding both humans and their feline companions.
Mrs. (Elizabeth) Bonhote
Bungay Castle: A Novel. v. 1/2
"Bungay Castle: A Novel. v. 1/2" by Mrs. Bonhote is a gothic novel published in 1797. Set during the thirteenth-century Barons' War at a real Suffolk castle, the story follows Roseline De Morney and her family as they discover mysterious secrets within their ancestral home. When Roseline's arranged marriage to an older baron is disrupted by a sword-wielding stranger emerging from a hidden tunnel, long-buried family revelations come to light. Blending gothic atmosphere with domestic drama, this commercially successful novel offers ghostly scares that prove less supernatural than they first appear.
Eliza Fowler Haywood
Life's Progress Through the Passions; Or, The Adventures of Natura
"Life's Progress Through the Passions; Or, The Adventures of Natura" by Haywood is a novel written in the mid-18th century. The story examines the life and experiences of the main character, Natura, who traverses the complexities of human passions from infancy through adolescence. The book delves into the interplay between emotions, childhood innocence, and the moral lessons learned from various life events. The opening of the novel introduces Natura's early life, illustrating how his innate passions and emotions manifest even from infancy. As he grows, the narrative explores the influences of his family dynamics, particularly the contrast between the nurturing love of his mother and the coldness of his stepmother. The text highlights Natura's various encounters with different passions, such as joy, fear, and budding love, providing a philosophical perspective on the development of human emotion and the challenges of adolescence as he prepares to venture into the larger world. The early chapters establish a foundation for introspection on how passions can govern actions and decisions, shaping not only the individual but also their relationships.
John Hawkesworth
Almoran and Hamet: An Oriental Tale
"Almoran and Hamet: An Oriental Tale" by John Hawkesworth is a novel written during the early 18th century. The story unfolds against the backdrop of a royal court in Persia, focusing on the complex relationship between two twin brothers, Almoran and Hamet, who are both sons of King Solyman. As they navigate their contrasting personalities and aspirations in the wake of their father's death, themes of power, jealousy, and virtue emerge, setting the stage for a tale of conflict and ambition. At the start of the novel, we witness the stark differences between the twin brothers as they grapple with their shared inheritance. Almoran is portrayed as haughty and pleasure-seeking, eagerly anticipating the power that comes with becoming king, while Hamet, in contrast, is depicted as humble and virtuous, seeking happiness through moral integrity and a deeper connection to his faith. Following their father's demise, the brothers' feelings of joy and grief reveal their conflicting values—Almoran's eagerness to seize power juxtaposed against Hamet's sorrowful introspection about mortality and fate. As tensions rise, their fates become increasingly intertwined, ultimately positioning them on a collision course that will test their character and resolve in the face of ambition and rivalry.
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