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Fiction -- History and criticism Books
Best books
Young Ewing Allison
The Delicious Vice
"The Delicious Vice" by Young Ewing Allison is a reflective novel written in the early 20th century. This work serves as both a celebration and critique of novel-reading, exploring the thoughts and experiences of habitual readers as they navigate their emotional landscapes linked to literature. The narrative delves into the deep connections between the reader and the vast array of characters and stories that have filled the reader's life, touching upon themes of nostalgia, regret, and the desire for new beginnings with familiar tales. The opening of the book establishes a profoundly introspective tone, as the author muses on the bittersweet nature of reflecting on a life filled with novels. The protagonist grapples with a sense of melancholy, particularly recalling the joy of reading beloved novels for the first time and the impossibility of reliving those experiences. This rhapsody extends to notable literary figures and the notion of the "novel-reader," whom the author distinguishes and idolizes throughout. The writing oscillates between whimsical reminiscence and earnest literary critique, setting the stage for a rich exploration of the impact of reading on identity and emotional experience.
Joseph Blotner
The political novel
"The Political Novel" by Joseph L. Blotner is a scholarly examination of the political novel genre written in the mid-20th century. This work analyzes how fiction is intertwined with political themes, illustrating the role novels play in shaping and reflecting societal views on politics and governance. Blotner presents the political novel as a significant literary form that aids in understanding the complex nature of political life, using an interdisciplinary approach that merges literary analysis with political theory. The opening of the book introduces the importance of political novels as tools for understanding human experience and political behavior. Blotner discusses the challenges of defining the political novel, noting its capacity to oscillate between portraying direct political action and depicting broader sociological themes. He sets the stage for a deeper exploration of various novels that highlight political activities and their effects, suggesting that these works reflect not only the political climate of their times but also the characters’ personal experiences and motivations. By establishing these foundational ideas, the opening provides readers an insight into the themes and analyses that will follow in the subsequent chapters, aiming to reveal the intricate relationship between literature and political discourse.
William Lyon Phelps
Essays on Modern Novelists
"Essays on Modern Novelists" by William Lyon Phelps is a collection of literary critiques written in the early 20th century. The book offers an in-depth examination of various Modernist authors and their contributions to the genre, aiming to elucidate their themes, styles, and impact on literature. Phelps includes essays on prominent figures such as Thomas Hardy, Mark Twain, and William Dean Howells, illustrating how their works reflect the zeitgeist of their time. At the start of this compilation, Phelps introduces his analysis of William De Morgan, emphasizing the late emergence of De Morgan's literary success. The opening discusses conversations between fictional characters that reveal De Morgan's beliefs about life and creativity, particularly how experience informs his storytelling. Phelps underscores the unique qualities of De Morgan's novels, such as their engaging narratives and character development, while also drawing parallels to the works of other notable authors, laying the groundwork for a detailed exploration of how these novelists collectively shaped modern literature.
Henry James
Notes on Novelists, with Some Other Notes
"Notes on Novelists, with Some Other Notes" by Henry James is a book of literary criticism published in 1914. This collection gathers James's essays from two decades, examining French, Italian, English, and American writers through his mature critical lens. James reassesses early enthusiasms like George Sand, reaffirms his devotion to Balzac's mastery, and explores Italian authors' treatment of passion. The volume's controversial centerpiece, "The New Novel," delivers pointed judgments on contemporary writers that sparked considerable debate among his peers.
Percy Lubbock
The Craft of Fiction
"The Craft of Fiction" by Percy Lubbock is an analytical examination of the art and structure of the novel, written in the early 20th century. The text delves into the intricacies involved in the creation of a fictional work, emphasizing the challenges faced by critics and readers in grasping the essence of a novel as a cohesive and static entity. Lubbock’s focus is primarily on analyzing renowned novels and their respective techniques, rather than recounting plot details or character arcs typical of conventional narratives. The opening of the work introduces the complexity of critiquing literature, highlighting the fleeting nature of a reader’s experience with a book and the difficulty in retaining a definitive understanding of its structure. Lubbock articulates the struggle of critics who must form opinions based largely on memory, discussing aspects like character representation and the overall impression left by a novel rather than its concrete form. He also touches on the notion that while a book may be approached critically, the experience of reading it is often subjective and deeply immersed in the fluidity of thought and feeling, suggesting that the artistry of fiction may be more about capturing the essence of life than providing a rigidly defined narrative.
Arthur Ransome
A History of Story-telling: Studies in the development of narrative
"A History of Story-telling: Studies in the Development of Narrative" by Arthur Ransome is a scholarly work written in the early 20th century. This book explores the evolution of narrative techniques, tracing the development of storytelling across different epochs and cultures. It focuses on the artistry of narrative rather than just historical facts, presenting a rich tapestry of literary styles and traditions." "At the start of the book, Ransome sets the stage by reflecting on the essence of storytelling, acknowledging the complexities and challenges of encapsulating such a multifaceted subject. He conveys his intent to discuss the art of storytelling through vivid examples, moving beyond mere chronological records. He articulates the importance of traditional narratives and their deep-rooted connection to human experience, illustrating how early story-tellers shaped our understanding of culture and morality through their tales. This initial portion effectively establishes the thematic groundwork for a comprehensive examination of narrative's evolution in literature."
William Dean Howells
Criticism and Fiction
"Criticism and Fiction" by William Dean Howells is a critical examination of literary theory and aesthetics, written during the late 19th century. This text delves into the relationship between art and the appreciation of literature, posing essential questions regarding the criteria for evaluating artistic merit in a world where tastes and fashions are ever-changing. The author discusses how true beauty and goodness lie in the unpretentious and sincere, and he advocates for literature that faithfully reflects life over that which conforms to established ideals. The beginning of "Criticism and Fiction" explores the themes of changing tastes in art and literature, using the works of historical figures such as John Addington Symonds and Edmund Burke to illustrate its arguments. Howells reflects on the superficial nature of popular fashions, emphasizing the importance of truth and simplicity in artistic expression. He critiques prevailing literary standards that often favor romanticized or idealized portrayals of life while advocating for a realism that mirrors true human experience. Throughout this opening section, Howells establishes his standpoint that the most meaningful art stems from an honest representation of life rather than the pursuit of artificial perfection or adherence to outdated conventions.
György Lukács
Die Theorie des Romans : $b Ein geschichtsphilosophischer Versuch über die Formen der großen Epik
"Die Theorie des Romans: Ein geschichtsphilosophischer Versuch über die Formen der großen Epik" by Georg Lukács is a philosophical treatise written in the early 20th century. The work explores the nature and development of the narrative form, particularly the novel, in relation to historical philosophy and cultural contexts. It addresses the evolution of epic forms, analyzing their relationship to individual and collective experiences in various cultures, particularly focusing on the Greek tradition and its transformations over time. The opening of the book sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of how cultural and philosophical shifts influence literary forms. Lukács reflects on the idealized state of ancient Greek culture, describing it as a time when human actions were harmonious with the cosmos, and individuals did not perceive a divide between their inner lives and the external world. The text argues that the epic form arises when life is viewed as an integrated whole, while modernity, marked by fragmentation and existential questioning, gives rise to the novel as a reflection of search and inquiry rather than certitude. Through this philosophical lens, Lukács situates the novel as an artistic response to the complexities of contemporary life, a narrative that must grapple with uncertainties and the thematic exploration of individual agency within a disconnected reality.
William Dean Howells
Short Stories and Essays (from Literature and Life)
"Short Stories and Essays (from Literature and Life)" by William Dean Howells is a collection of narratives exploring various facets of life, culture, and society, likely penned in the late 19th century. The essays and stories delve into social observations, personal reflections, and portrayals of everyday life, drawing on the realities of human experience as Howells presents a tapestry of American life through his adept literary lens. The opening portion introduces the essay "Worries of a Winter Walk," where the narrator recounts a cold winter morning in a bustling tenement area. Through vivid imagery, he describes the stark contrast of a lonely, frigid street against the warmth of human bustle usually present. The narrator encounters a small child eagerly fetching coal and is struck by her practicality and resilience, highlighting the harsh realities faced by children of the working class. As he reflects on this scene, he grapples with the moral complexity of using real-life situations as material for fiction, leading to deeper questions of empathy and responsibility toward those in need. This introspective exploration sets the tone for the collection, inviting readers to engage thoughtfully with the lives and struggles depicted within.
Géza Voinovich
Regényirók : $b Tanulmányok
"Regényirók : Tanulmányok" by Géza Voinovich is a scholarly collection of studies written in the early 20th century. The essays focus on significant Russian authors such as Gogol, Lermontov, Goncharov, and others, examining their contributions to literature and the cultural context in which they wrote. This work likely delves into the themes, styles, and societal critiques presented in the writings of these authors, exploring how their literary voices reflect the nuances of Russian life. The opening of the publication introduces the writer Nikolai Gogol, set against the backdrop of the emerging golden age of Russian literature in the early 19th century. Voinovich discusses Gogol's early life and influences, highlighting his struggles and eventual rise as a significant literary figure. The text elaborates on Gogol's unique style that blends melancholy with humor, and Voinovich sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Gogol's narratives, notably the connection to his heritage and the depiction of Russian society through the lens of personal and national identity. This intricate setup establishes the foundation for a profound analysis of the characters and themes that continue to resonate in Gogol’s works.
Thomas Hill Green
An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times
"An Estimate of the Value and Influence of Works of Fiction in Modern Times" by Thomas Hill Green is a critical essay written during the late 19th century. This philosophical work analyzes the role of fiction, particularly novels, in contemporary society, examining their impact on human experience, morality, and culture. Green's exploration provides insight into the principles of art, examining the distinctions between various literary forms such as epic poetry, drama, and the novel itself. In this essay, Green argues that while novels serve as a reflection of ordinary life, they fall short of the higher artistic representation found in epic poetry and tragedy. He posits that novels often prioritize prudence and the mundane over idealism, thereby failing to elevate the human spirit. Green emphasizes that the primary function of the novel is to widen human experience and expand sympathies among readers by exposing them to a variety of life situations, although he critiques their tendency to sentimentalize life rather than offer profound truths. Overall, he asserts that while novels can enrich understanding and foster empathy, they may also propagate superficial moral lessons rather than inspire the deeper, transformative insights found in higher forms of art.
Heinrich Mann
Flaubert und die Herkunft des modernen Romans
"Flaubert und die Herkunft des modernen Romans" by Heinrich Mann is a literary analysis written in the early 20th century. This book delves into the intricate relationship between Gustave Flaubert's works, particularly his novel "Madame Bovary," and the development of the modern novel. Mann explores Flaubert's struggles with realism, the influence of romantic ideals, and the emotional complexities that underlie his art. In this work, Mann dissects Flaubert's artistic journey, highlighting his battle against societal norms and his own emotional depths. He argues that Flaubert’s disdain for the bourgeois world and his quest for an impersonal style in literature reflect a deeper struggle with his romantic inclinations. Through critical discussions of characters like Emma Bovary, Mann illustrates how Flaubert's poignant portrayals of their inner lives reveal a tension between longing for beauty and grappling with harsh realities. Mann emphasizes that Flaubert's writing is not just a reflection of reality but a complex interplay of emotions, artistic integrity, and a yearning for intellectual and creative freedom.
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