Robert Tressell

Publicada en 1914 e inédita en nuestro país, Los filántropos en harapos es una novela explícitamente política, considerada un clásico de la literatura obrera de todos los tiempos. Ofrece una visión global de la vida social, politica, economica y cultural de Inglaterra en un momento en que el socialismo estaba empezando a ganar terreno. George Orwell elogio su capacidad para transmitir sin sensacionalismo el detalle real del trabajo manual. La consideraba una obra que todo el mundo deberia leer, un pedazo de la historia social del siglo XX.

Robert Tressells seminal work, "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists," intricately weaves its narrative through the lives of working-class painters in early 20th-century England. The novel, notable for its blend of realism and social critique, uses a rich tapestry of character development and vivid settings to illustrate the struggles against economic exploitation and social injustices. The title itself reflects Tressells underlying message about the selfless sacrifice of workers who contribute to society yet remain trapped in poverty. With its blend of satire and earnestness, Tressells work occupies a significant place in the tradition of socialist literature, drawing inspiration from the burgeoning labor movements of his time. Having lived through and witnessed the harsh realities of the working class, Tressells personal experiences as a committed socialist fueled his passion to write this poignant narrative. Born into a modest, working-class family in South Africa and later enduring financial hardships in England, Tressells empathy for ordinary workers colors every aspect of this novel. His deep commitment to social justice and criticism of capitalist society emerges not just in his characters struggles but also in the socio-political commentary woven throughout the text. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of literature, history, and social theory. Tressells lucid prose and compelling storytelling engage readers and challenge them to reflect on the socio-economic structures that govern human lives. "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists" remains as relevant today as it was at its publication, beckoning modern readers to explore its enduring themes of altruism, class struggle, and the quest for social justice.

Passionate, highly entertaining and gloriously funny - Robert Tressells classic pre-First World War account of the working lives of a group of housepainters and decorators is vividly adapted by Howard Brenton.The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists recounts the little daily successes and the disasters of a group of working-class men, living under the constant fear of being laid off by employers forever looking for new corners to cut. Both workers and bosses are caught in a system spiralling out of control, but why is it the workers always come out worse?Howard Brentons stage adaptation, first performed at the Everyman Theatre in Liverpool in June 2010 in a co-production with Chichester Festival Theatre, lays bare the many social injustices perpetrated on these men whilst capturing their individual characters with touching truth to life.

In writing this book my intention was to present, in the form of an interesting story, a faithful picture of working-class life--more especially of those engaged in the Building trades--in a small town in the south of England.I wished to describe the relations existing between the workmen and their employers, the attitude and feelings of these two classes towards each other; their circumstances when at work and when out of employment; their pleasures, their intellectual outlook, their religious and political opinions and ideals.The action of the story covers a period of only a little over twelve months, but in order that the picture might be complete it was necessary to describe how the workers are circumstanced at all periods of their lives, from the cradle to the grave. Therefore the characters include women and children, a young boy--the apprentice--some improvers, journeymen in the prime of life, and worn-out old men.I designed to show the conditions relating from poverty and unemployment: to expose the futility of the measures taken to deal with them and to indicate what I believe to be the only real remedy, namely--Socialism. I intended to explain what Socialists understand by the word poverty: to define the Socialist theory of the causes of poverty, and to explain how Socialists propose to abolish poverty.It may be objected that, considering the number of books dealing with these subjects already existing, such a work as this was uncalled for. The answer is that not only are the majority of people opposed to Socialism, but a very brief conversation with an average anti-socialist is sufficient to show that he does not know what Socialism means. The same is true of all the anti-socialist writers and the great statesmen who make anti-socialist speeches: unless we believe that they are deliberate liars and imposters, who to serve their own interests labour to mislead other people, we must conclude that they do not understand Socialism.

The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists is a classic representation of the impoverished and politically powerless underclass of British society in Edwardian England ruthlessly exploited by the institutionalized corruption of their employers and the civic and religious authorities

In "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists," Robert Tressell presents a poignant exploration of early 20th-century working-class life in England, skillfully weaving social critique and vivid characterization into a narrative that is both engaging and enlightening. Using a semi-autobiographical approach, Tressell immerses the reader in the struggles of the impoverished decorators who work tirelessly yet receive scant remuneration, exposing the stark inequalities of capitalism. The novels rich, yet accessible prose, infused with a blend of humor and pathos, resonates with the socialist principles that underpin Tressells vision, making it a pivotal work in the genre of social realism and a precursor to modern labor literature. Robert Tressell, born Robert Noonan in 1870, was a skilled craftsman deeply affected by the socio-economic conditions of his time. His experiences as a painter and decorator, coupled with poignant observations of poverty and exploitation, fueled his desire to write a work that would serve as a clarion call for social reform. Tressells commitment to socialism and workers rights shaped his narrative, seeking not only to depict the harsh realities faced by the working class but to inspire empathy and action among his readers. This seminal text is highly recommended for readers interested in the dynamics of class struggle, labor rights, and social justice. Tressells vivid portrayals and powerful social commentary not only resonate with contemporary issues but also evoke a sense of shared humanity. "The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists" remains a crucial reading for anyone seeking to understand the historical roots of social inequity and the enduring spirit of protest against it.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A succinct Introduction situates the works timeless appeal and themes.- The Synopsis outlines the central plot, highlighting key developments without spoiling critical twists.- A detailed Historical Context immerses you in the eras events and influences that shaped the writing.- A thorough Analysis dissects symbols, motifs, and character arcs to unearth underlying meanings.- Reflection questions prompt you to engage personally with the works messages, connecting them to modern life.- Handpicked Memorable Quotes shine a spotlight on moments of literary brilliance.- Interactive footnotes clarify unusual references, historical allusions, and archaic phrases for an effortless, more informed read.

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The Ragged-Trousered Philanthropists (1914) is a semi-autobiographical novel by the Irish house painter and sign writer Robert Noonan, who wrote the book in his spare time under the pen name Robert Tressell. Published after Tressells death from tuberculosis in the Liverpool Royal Infirmary in 1911, the novel follows a house painters efforts to find work in the fictional English town of Mugsborough (based on the coastal town of Hastings) to stave off the workhouse for himself, his wife and his son. The original title page, drawn by Tressell, carried the subtitle: "Being the story of twelve months in Hell, told by one of the damned, and written down by Robert Tressell."