Vernon Lee

Los cuentos góticos más escalofriantes, seleccionados por los críticos de la British Library.El miedo despierta al atardecer. El miedo se alimenta de las más sombrías tinieblas. El miedo es un animal nocturno.Una mujer convencida de ser la reencarnacion de un antepasado muerto, una dama renacentista y asesina de sus cinco maridos que vuelve a la vida, salida de los apuntes de un estudiante Personajes obsesionados por el pasado, los deseos y los miedos dan voz a un mundo de fantasmas interiores.Presencias es un viaje terrorifico por los recovecos de la psique, donde la obsesion por el pasado se transforma en una angustia sin fin. Han dicho:Vernon Lee es una escritora inquietante, misteriosa e inteligente. Henry JamesUna escritora extraordinariamente dotada. Paris ReviewVernon Lee: como si Henry James se fuera de cena con Jane Austen. El Mundo

Vernon Lee, seudónimo de la británica Violet Paget, nació en 1856 en Boulogne-sur-Mer (Francia), y murió en San Gervasio Bresciano (Italia) en 1935. En la literatura fue precoz y brillante desde época temprana, quedando su vida marcada por una educacion cosmopolita y una gran curiosidad que se verian reflejadas en la calidad de sus ensayos y en las documentadisimas ambientaciones de sus obras de ficcion. Los seis relatos que recoge este volumen son "Oke de Okehurst o un amante fantasma", "Amour Dure", "Esa maldita voz", "La leyenda de madame Krasinska", "Dionea" y "La virgen de los siete puñales" y se cuentan entre las obras mejor perfiladas de la autora, como lo prueban su vigente popularidad y su continua reedicion desde que fueron publicados por primera vez.

R. James representa, segons els especialistes, el punt culminant de la ghost story victoriana; a partir d'ell s'iniciaria doncs la decadencia del conte de fantasmes tradicional. La ghost story, pero segons Rafael Llopis, no estava pas encara culturalment exhaurida, com ho demostra l'aparicio d'algunes obres i autors, potser no superiors a aquell geni, pero si molt estimables.El cas mes sobresortint en aquest sentit es el de Vernon Lee, nom de plume de Violet Paget (1856-1935), contemporania de M.R. James i important assagista, d'una enorme erudicio, com ho demostra el seu excel·lent Studies of the Eighteenth Century in Italy (1880), i autora de nombroses obres literaries en tots els generes (uns trenta titols, entre assaigs, drames i novel·les).Per als amants de la literatura fantastica, Vernon Lee ha aconseguit un public d'adeptes incondicionals gracies a la seva petita obra mestra El fantasma enamorat (The Phantom Lover, 1886), que la col·leccio L'Arca posa ara a l'abast del lector catala actual.Formada en la millor escola narrativa del segle x/x, Vernon Lee aconsegueix de donar un sentit estructural a aquest relat, fins al punt que avui, mes d'un segle despres, sorprendra mes d'un lector per l'habilitat dels seus recursos i per la mateixa qualitat literaria. Un tipus de recursos que han sabut aprofita...

This 2-volume book is one of the best-known works by the British author Violet Paget that features the studies of the antique and the mediaeval in the Renaissance, symbolically named Euphorion after the marvelous child born of the mystic marriage of Faust and Helena from Goethes drama. This carefully crafted e-artnow ebook is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents.Contents:IntroductionThe SacrificeThe Italy of the Elizabethan DramatistsThe Outdoor PoetrySymmetria PriscaThe Portrait ArtThe School of BoiardoMediaeval LoveEpilogue

Vernon Lee, nombre literario de la escritora británica Violet Paget (1856-1935), nació en Francia y tuvo una infancia nómada debido a la condición de expatriados de sus padres. Viajó por Italia, Francia, Alemania y Suiza, pero la mayor parte de su vida la pasó en una villa en la campiña cercana a Florencia. Gran conocedora de la historia del arte europeo, a los veinticuatro años publicó un ensayo, «Estudios del siglo XVIII en Italia», que sorprendió a los historiadores de la época por su erudición. A pesar de haber sido educada en la moral victoriana, Violet fue una feminista militante que vestía "à la garçonne" y que mantuvo largas y apasionadas relaciones con dos mujeres, Mary Robinson y Kit Anstruther-Thomson. Escribió novelas, cuentos, ensayos, diálogos y piezas teatrales, impresiones de viaje y estudios sobre arte, arquitectura, música, psicología y estética. La presente selección, «El príncipe Alberico y la dama Serpiente», reúne trece relatos fantásticos de Vernon Lee, y constituye la antología más completa de esta autora publicada hasta la fecha en nuestro país. El lector podrá encontrar entre sus páginas los relatos más conocidos, como "El príncipe Alberico y la dama Serpiente", "Amour Dure", "Dionea", "La voz maligna", "Marsias en Flandes" o "La Virgen de los Siete Puñales", así como otros que estaban inéditos en castellano, como "San Eudemón y el Naranjo", "La Dama y la Muerte" o "El Papa Jacinto". Muchos de los cuentos de Vernon Lee se inspiran en leyendas de la antigüedad que vuelven a aflorar en el mundo presente, o en mitos literarios que la autora a menudo reinterpreta. Vernon Lee recrea con maestría paisajes y decorados para dar vida a sus historias; de este modo, va tejiendo una sutil tela de araña que sumerge al lector en el lugar y tiempo del relato.

In Vanitas: Polite Stories, Vernon Lee weaves a tapestry of intricate narratives that explore the ephemeral nature of beauty, art, and existence. Through a collection of tales rich in emotional resonance and aesthetic contemplation, Lee employs a lyrical, almost decadent prose style that invites readers into a world of refined sensibilities and philosophical musings. Set against the backdrop of the late 19th centurya time flourishing with artistic movements and existential inquirythese stories engage with themes of mortality and the fleetingness of life, characteristic of the literary trend known as vanitas in art and literature. Vernon Lee, the pseudonym of the British writer Violet Paget, was a pioneering figure in the exploration of aestheticism and the psychology of art. With a rich educational background in philosophy and literature, Lees personal experiences and travels across Europe profoundly influenced her perspective, infusing her work with a deep appreciation for culture and the human experience. Her unique voice often bridges the gap between the supernatural and the psychological, making her insights into the human condition compelling and relevant. Vanitas: Polite Stories stands as an essential addition to the libraries of readers engaged with fin-de-siecle literature, art history, and those who appreciate intricate storytelling. With its blend of elegance and profundity, this collection promises to captivate and provoke thought, inviting readers to reflect on the transient beauty of life and art.

We were talking last evening as the blue moon-mist poured in through the old-fashioned grated window, and mingled with our yellow lamplight at table we were talking of a certain castle whose heir is initiated (as folk tell) on his twenty-first birthday to the knowledge of a secret so terrible as to overshadow his subsequent life. It struck us, discussing idly the various mysteries and terrors that may lie behind this fact or this fable, that no doom or horror conceivable and to be defined in words could ever adequately solve this riddle; that no reality of dreadfulness could seem caught but paltry, bearable, and easy to face in comparison with this vague we know not what.

It seemed to Decimus Little that there could be no doubt left. His only wonder was whether anyone else had been near making that discovery. As he sat in a deep window of the big drawing-room, the light of the candles falling yellow upon the shining white arms and shoulders, the shining white expanses of shirt-front, the lustrous silks and lustrous black cloth within doors; the great wave of moor and fell unfurling greyish-green in the pale-blue twilight without; as he sat there alone in the window, he wondered how it would be if any of these creatures assembled for the coming of age of the heir of Hotspur Hall could guess that he knew. His eyes mechanically followed the tall figure of his host, as his broad shoulders and grey beard appeared and reappeared in the crowd; they sought out the yellow ridge of curls of the son and heir, as his head rose and fell while talking to the ladies in the corner. What if either of them could guess? If old Sir Hugh Hotspur could guess that there was in the world another creature beside himself who knew the position of that secret door; if young Hotspur could guess that there existed close by another man who might, any day, penetrate into that secret chamber to which, at the close of these merry-making days, the youth must be solemnly admitted, to lose, during that fatal hour among unspeakable mysteries, all lightness of heart forever?

De entre todas las páginas italianas que ocuparon la obra de esta original y algo excéntrica autora, sobresalen estas miniaturas sobre Roma, la ciudad que conoció a fondo y por la que pasea una mirada de multiples intereses, casi impresionista. Abarcan dieciocho años de su vida y varias visitas. Resulta una delicia seguir los pasos de esta italiana de corazon y dejarse atrapar por su espiritu iconoclasta, por sus juegos de imagenes y por la erudita lupa que aplica sobre rincones, edificios y obras de arte, a las que ilumina de forma magistral.No es la Roma que deslumbra al creciente turismo de la epoca y que Vernon Lee desprecia y caricaturiza, sino la de rincones e iglesias ocultas, casi fantasmales; la del silencio y la inmundicia que dignifica con su atenta contemplacion. En estos fragmentos la erudicion estetica no esta reñida con la anecdota, ni con la hilazon de fragmentos que parecen yuxtaponerse como las estructuras de Piranesi, el artista que segun Vernon Lee mejor comprendio Roma. Conocida y traducida solo como autora de relatos fantasticos, la otra Lee, la enamorada de Italia, brilla aqui en toda su intensidad.

He lusts and kills in equal measure. The brutal Don Juan - an unrepentant sinner - makes a pact with the Virgin of the Seven Daggers. He promises to forever proclaim her supreme beauty and asks that in return she save him from damnation.Se deja llevar tanto por la lujuria como por la violencia. El brutal Don Juan, un pecador irredimible, hace un pacto con la "Virgin of de Seven Daggers" (La Virgen de las Siete Dagas). Promete proclamar para siempre su suprema belleza y a cambio le pide que lo salve de la condena eterna.

Este libro recolle sete dos máis importantes relatos de Vernon Lee. Sete historias onde o sobrenatural, o macabro, o misterioso e o abraiante ambientan unha literatura desas que non se esquecen. A autora, gran coñecedora do Pasado e o seu legado (os acontecementos historicos, a arte), usa a erudicion para tecer atmosferas e personaxes decadentes, miticos, arrepiantes.

"Els deus i el cavaller Tanhûser", narrada en clau humorística i amena per Vernon Lee, pseudonim de Violet Paget (1856-1936), es un exemple d'aquests productes que, gaudint d'uns orígens prestigiosos

In "The Spirit of Rome," Vernon Lee deftly weaves an enchanting tapestry of history, art, and atmosphere that captures the essence of the Eternal City. Through a series of evocative essays, Lee transcends mere description, employing a lyrical prose style that resonates with the rhythms of Italian life and culture. Set against the backdrop of Italys rich historical narrative, the book mingles personal reflections with profound philosophical insights, exploring the interplay between place and identity and the sensory experience of urban existence. Lee invites readers to experience Rome not just as a city but as a living spirit imbued with history, myth, and the sublime intricacies of beauty and decay. Vernon Lee, a pioneer of aestheticism and a significant figure in early 20th-century literature, was deeply influenced by her extensive travels and profound engagement with art and philosophy. Born Violet Paget in 1856, Lees rich background in the humanities and her affinity for Italy fostered a unique perspective, enabling her to blend personal narrative with cultural critique. Her encounters with the artistic elite and her embrace of the Romantic tradition evidently shaped her portrayal of Rome, making it both a personal and universal exploration of beauty. I wholeheartedly recommend "The Spirit of Rome" to anyone fascinated by the intersection of art, life, and place. Lees contemplative prose and acute observations will resonate with not only lovers of Italy but also those who seek a deeper understanding of how environments shape our experiences and perceptions. This book is essential reading for scholars of literature and art history alike, providing a timeless perspective on the enchanting power of Rome.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.

Vernon LeeAos "The Countess of Albany" is a fascinating exploration of the life of the enigmatic figure, Princess Elizabeth Stuart, who became the Countess of Albany. The narrative blends historical fiction with psychological insight, set against the backdrop of 18th-century Europe. Lee employs a rich, evocative prose style that immerses readers in the intricate emotions and complexities of her characters, deftly capturing the clash between personal desire and societal expectations. This work also exists within the context of Lees broader literary ambition to merge the aesthetic and the intellectual, reflecting her keen interest in the interplay between art and life. Vernon Lee, born Violet Paget, was a pioneering figure in the realms of essays and fiction, deeply influenced by her rich education in art and literature, and her affinity for the Gothic and psychological nuances. Her vibrant life in Europe, mingling with prominent intellectuals and artists, undoubtedly fueled her fascination with characters who straddled the boundaries of identity and reality. LeeAos extensive travels and studies in aesthetics provided the necessary framework to create a profound representation of the CountessAos dual existence, as both a historical figure and a woman seeking autonomy. This book is highly recommended for readers interested in historical fiction that intertwines rich character studies with philosophical musings. Lees exploration of identity, desire, and societal constraints remains relevant, offering profound insights into the human experience. "The Countess of Albany" is not just a biographical retelling but a meditation on freedom and the complexity of the self.

Vernon Lees "Belcaro; Being Essays on Sundry Aesthetical Questions" is a thoughtful exploration of art and aesthetics through a series of essays that engage deeply with various cultural themes. Written with a lyrical prose that merges philosophical inquiry with personal reflection, Lee examines the interplay between beauty, nature, and artistic expression. The work reflects the intricacies of the late 19th-century discourse on aesthetics, contextualizing its insights within the broader Romantic and Decadent movements, making it a significant contribution to the understanding of beauty in art and life. Vernon Lee, born Violet Paget, was a prominent figure in the fin-de-sicle literary scene, known for her fascination with the metaphysical aspects of art and the influence of culture on individual perception. Her extensive travels across Europe and her engagement with various artistic communities informed her perspective on aesthetics, providing a rich backdrop for her writings. The intersection of her identity as a woman in a male-dominated field and her deep emotional and intellectual responses to art shaped her unique voice, offering readers a glimpse into her innovative thoughts. "Belcaro" is a compelling read for anyone interested in the philosophy of art or the evolution of aesthetic thought. Lees insights are as relevant today as they were in her time, making this collection both timeless and enlightening. This book will resonate with scholars, artists, and general readers alike, inviting them to reflect on the nature of beauty and the transformative power of art.

In "Ariadne in Mantua," Vernon Lee weaves a rich tapestry of myth, art, and existential inquiry through the story of Ariadne, the abandoned heroine of antiquity. Set against the backdrop of Renaissance Venice, the narrative explores themes of identity, nostalgia, and the interplay between reality and artifice. Lees lyrical prose and intricate characterizations elevate this work, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of love and the weight of history on the individual psyche. This novella stands as both a homage to myth and a profound commentary on the transformative power of art, situating Lee within the literary movements of fin-de-sicle modernism and aestheticism. Vernon Lee, the pseudonym of Violet Paget, was an influential writer and cultural critic known for her fascination with the arts and her deep engagement with philosophical questions. Her background in aesthetics and her travels across Europe informed her perspective on the interplay between art and life, leading her to create narratives that are both reflective and imaginative. Lees own experiences of exile and identity add layers of significance to her interpretations of mythical figures and the landscapes they inhabit. Readers seeking an exploration of the intersection between myth and artistry will find "Ariadne in Mantua" an enthralling journey into the human experience. Lees evocative style and psychological depth invite those interested in literary elegance and philosophical musings to immerse themselves in this captivating retelling of a timeless tale. This novella is not merely a story but a mirror reflecting the myriad facets of humanity and creativity.

Una de les más subtils escriptores d’històries de fantasmes és Vernon Lee. Al llarg de La Verge dels Set Punyals hi ha escampada l’efervescència de la màgia negra i sempre hi plana perillosa, tenebro

In "Hauntings," Vernon Lee explores the realms of the supernatural through a collection of meticulously crafted tales that blend psychological insight with gothic elements. The prose is both lyrical and evocative, designed to immerse the reader in vivid imagery and emotional undercurrents. Set against the backdrop of late Victorian Europe, the stories delve into themes of desire, fear, and the complexities of human consciousness, reflecting the eras fascination with the occult and the unseen. LeeAos unique perspective merges philosophy with narrative, making each haunting a profound commentary on the nature of existence and the spectral echoes of the past. Vernon Lee, born as Violet Paget in 1856, was a pioneer in the early 20th-century literary scene, often championing issues of gender and sexuality. Her experiences as a cosmopolitan traveler and her immersion in aestheticism deeply informed her writing, imbuing it with a rich tapestry of cultural nuance and existential inquiry. Lees personal encounters with art, literature, and the metaphysical undoubtedly influenced her depiction of the supernatural, allowing her to create atmospheres that resonate with authenticity and depth. "Hauntings" is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the interplay of the spirit world and the psyche. LeeAos tales not only entertain but also challenge readers to confront the complexities of their own fears and desires. This collection stands as a testament to her literary ingenuity and a captivating exploration of the human condition, making it an essential addition to the library of any lover of Gothic literature.