In ‘Raffles, A Gentleman-Thief: 27 Adventure Tales in One Volume, ‘ E. W. Hornung masterfully weaves a tapestry of crime and camaraderie through the lens of his charming anti-hero, A.J. Raffles. Set against the backdrop of Edwardian London, these stories embody a captivating blend of thrilling escapades and sharp wit, all rendered in Hornung’s vivid and engaging prose. The collection transcends mere adventure, as it delves into themes of class distinction and moral ambiguity, challenging the reader’s perception of heroism and villainy in a rapidly evolving society. E. W. Hornung, a contemporary of Arthur Conan Doyle and married to his sister, drew inspiration from the detective genre while infusing it with his unique perspective on the criminal mind. His background as a writer and playwright allowed him to craft intricate plots and detailed characterizations that resonate throughout the series. Hornung’s work appeals not only to fans of adventure tales but also to those intrigued by ethical dilemmas and the allure of the unconventional. For readers keen on exploring the intricacies of human nature and the thrill of vicarious living, ‘Raffles, A Gentleman-Thief’ is a must-read. Each tale not only entertains but invites contemplation on the nature of thievery and friendship, making the collection a timeless addition to the canon of classic literature.
Об авторе
Ernest William Hornung (1866-1921), commonly known as E. W. Hornung, was an English author and poet best known for creating the character A. J. Raffles, a gentleman thief in late Victorian London. Born into a middle-class family in Middlesbrough, Hornung spent most of his youth in England. His brother-in-law, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, significantly influenced Hornung’s literary career, and Hornung himself acknowledged Doyle’s impact on his work. Hornung’s literary contribution is highlighted by his most celebrated assembly, ‘Raffles, A Gentleman-Thief: 27 Adventure Tales in One Volume, ‘ which presents the exploits of his charismatic antihero who, in stark contrast to Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, conducts his misdeeds within the upper echelons of society. The Raffles stories, serialized in ‘Cassell’s Magazine’ before being published in book form, exemplify Hornung’s adeptness at combining elements of suspense, humor, and social commentary. Hornung’s portrayal of Raffles also reflects a nuanced perspective on Victorian and Edwardian attitudes towards class, crime, and justice. Although Raffles remains his most enduring creation, Hornung’s bibliography includes other novels and short stories that often explore themes of adventure and crime, demonstrating his versatility and literary acumen. Hornung’s work contributed to the crime fiction genre, as well as providing a counter-narrative to the morally unambiguous detective stories popular at the time.
Больше книг от того же автора (ов) / редактор
118 238 Электронные книги в этой категории
