Wilkie Collins, página 7 de 31

What is "poor" about Miss Finch? Well, with a novel with names like "Mr Sebright" (hes an eye specialist "see bright", geddit?), its all about sight. You see, Lucilla Finch has been blind since infancy until she meets the eccentric German doctor Herr Grosse who partially restores her sight. Far from treating her simply as a "poor" blind Victorian woman, this novel is conscious of the experience of blindness, particularly that of blindness and romance.Published a few years after his acclaimed mystery novel, "The Moonstone" (which starred Sarah Hadland in a recent BBC adaptation), Wilkie Collins now keeps up the mystery in "Poor Miss Finch". Having researched a real case of regained sight, Collins depicts great detail in Lucillas experience of colours whilst in the midst of a love triangle.Two brothers want Lucillas hand in marriage; their deception and plotting must be foiled before Lucilla unwittingly changes her life forever.

If youve seen "The Sixth Sense" with Bruce Willis, youll be familiar with Munchausen by Proxy Syndrome: deliberately making a person feel unwell in order to care for them. In "Jezebels Daughter", the poisonous Mrs Fontaine does exactly that in a plan to get her daughter, Minna, married. This is a story of romance and what happens when parents get too involved in their childrens marriages.Centred around a business based in London and Frankfort (or Frankfurt as we say today), "Jezebels Daughter" offers distinctive Victorian characters. Fritz Keller, the son of a partner of the business, is in love with Minna Fontaine. Meanwhile, the kindly proto-feminist Mrs Wagner runs the London office which employs women. She is caring for a patient, Jack, from the Bedlam psychiatric hospital.This thriller of a tale culminates when Mrs Fontaine, Mrs Wagner, and Jack all clash in a gothic plot that will determine the happy ending of Fritz and Minna.

"Little Novels" isnt quite a "Little Women" spin-off, as the title might suggest. While you wont be treated to Timothée Chalamet, you will be treated to fourteen short stories – or little novels (ah

Completed by Walter Besant

In The Law and The Lady, Wilkie Collins masterfully weaves a gripping tale of mystery and intrigue that challenges the societal norms of Victorian England. Written in a pioneering narrative style, the novel presents a complex plot through the eyes of the protagonist, Valeria Brande, who embarks on a quest to unveil the truth behind her husbands mysterious past and a murder conviction that casts a shadow over their marriage. Collins intricately merges elements of legal drama with psychological depth, exploring themes of gender roles, morality, and the often convoluted relationship between truth and perception, making it a significant precursor to modern detective fiction. Wilkie Collins, a contemporary of Charles Dickens and a key figure in the development of the sensation novel, drew from his tumultuous personal experiences and keen observations of Victorian society. His own legal troubles and the heightened anxieties surrounding womens rights in the 19th century undoubtedly influenced the creation of this novel, allowing him to critique the patriarchal legal system while introducing a strong, resourceful female protagonist who defies conventions. The Law and The Lady is a must-read for fans of mystery and legal thrillers, as it provides not only a captivating narrative filled with suspense but also a profound exploration of societal issues. Collinss adept character development and richly detailed prose invite readers to question the boundaries of morality and the reliability of truth, making this classic a thought-provoking addition to any literary collection.

La dama de blanco es una obra seminal del autor británico Wilkie Collins, publicado por primera vez en 1859. Este relato cautivador se enmarca dentro del género del misterio y el thriller gótico, explora las complejidades de la identidad y la justicia en un contexto victoriano. A traves de una narrativa epistolar y polifacetica, Collins entrelaza las historias de varios narradores, logrando un estilo vivido y envolvente que mantiene al lector en constante tension. La trama se centra en la misteriosa figura de una mujer vestida de blanco, quien desencadena una serie de intrigas y revelaciones que llevan a cuestionar las normas sociales y la moral de la epoca. Wilkie Collins, contemporaneo de Charles Dickens, es conocido por su innovacion en la narrativa y la incorporacion de elementos de suspense en la literatura. Su experiencia en el ambito del derecho y su profunda comprension de las dinamicas sociales de la epoca influyeron en la creacion de este texto. Collins, quien padecia de una salud fragil, reflejo su interes por lo extraño y lo sobrenatural, lo que le permitio explorar temas de opresion y liberacion mediante personajes femeninos fuertes y complejos. Recomiendo encarecidamente La dama de blanco a cualquier lector que busque una experiencia literaria rica en intriga y reflexion social. La obra no solo establece las bases del moderno thriller, sino que tambien ofrece una critica mordaz de la sociedad victoriana. La complejidad de sus personajes y la estructura narrativa intrigante la convierten en un clasico atemporal que sigue resonando en la literatura contemporanea.

La piedra lunar, publicada en 1868, se erige como una de las obras más significativas del género de la novela detectivesca. A través de un complejo entramado narrativo que incluye múltiples voces y puntos de vista, Collins aborda el misterio en torno a un diamante hindu, desdibujando las fronteras entre el crimen y la moralidad. Su estilo literario, que mezcla el suspense con la critica social, refleja la inquietud de la epoca victoriana, donde las normas sociales y las tensiones coloniales se entrelazan. Collins utiliza una prosa precisa y envolvente, creando personajes memorables que aportan diferentes perspectivas al relato y enriquecen su profundidad tematica. Wilkie Collins, contemporaneo de Charles Dickens y un pionero en la novela por entregas, dedico su vida a explorar los rigores de la sociedad victoriana y las dinamicas de clase. Influenciado por su amistad con Dickens y su propio interes por el drama y el crimen, Collins buscaba rompiendo moldes literarios y convenciones sociales. La piedra lunar se puede considerar una respuesta a las inquietudes de su tiempo, reflejando tanto los cambios culturales como su fascinacion por la investigacion criminal. Recomiendo fervientemente La piedra lunar a cualquier lector interesado en la evolucion del genero policiaco y en la rica narrativa del siglo XIX. Collins no solo ofrece un relato cautivador, sino tambien una reflexion sobre las relaciones humanas y las tensiones de la sociedad de su epoca. Esta obra es un hito que ha influido en numerosos autores posteriores y constituye una lectura esencial para quienes busquen comprender los origenes de la literatura de misterio.

WE were three quiet, lonely old men, and SHE was a lively, handsome young woman, and we were at our wits end what to do with her.A word about ourselves, first of alla necessary word, to explain the singular situation of our fair young guest.We are three brothers; and we live in a barbarous, dismal old house called The Glen Tower. Our place of abode stands in a hilly, lonesome district of South Wales. No such thing as a line of railway runs anywhere near us. No gentlemans seat is within an easy drive of us. We are at an unspeakably inconvenient distance from a town, and the village to which we send for our letters is three miles off.

It was the opening of the season of eighteen hundred and thirty-two, at the Baths of Wildbad.The evening shadows were beginning to gather over the quiet little German town, and the diligence was expected every minute. Before the door of the principal inn, waiting the arrival of the first visitors of the year, were assembled the three notable personages of Wildbad, accompanied by their wivesthe mayor, representing the inhabitants; the doctor, representing the waters; the landlord, representing his own establishment. Beyond this select circle, grouped snugly about the trim little square in front of the inn, appeared the towns-people in general, mixed here and there with the country people, in their quaint German costume, placidly expectant of the diligencethe men in short black jackets, tight black breeches, and three-cornered beaver hats; the women with their long light hair hanging in one thickly plaited tail behind them, and the waists of their short woolen gowns inserted modestly in the region of their shoulder-blades.

THE hands on the hall-clock pointed to half-past six in the morning. The house was a country residence in West Somersetshire, called Combe-Raven. The day was the fourth of March, and the year was eighteen hundred and forty-six.No sounds but the steady ticking of the clock, and the lumpish snoring of a large dog stretched on a mat outside the dining-room door, disturbed the mysterious morning stillness of hall and staircase. Who were the sleepers hidden in the upper regions? Let the house reveal its own secrets; and, one by one, as they descend the stairs from their beds, let the sleepers disclose themselves.

In "Armadale," Wilkie Collins masterfully intertwines elements of sensation and mystery literature, presenting a complex narrative steeped in themes of identity, morality, and fate. The novel is characterized by its intricate plot structure and vivid characterization, with Collins employing a rich, atmospheric style that immerses readers in the psychological depth of its characters. Set against the backdrop of Victorian England, "Armadale" examines social conventions and the darker aspects of human nature, showcasing the authors innovative approach to storytelling that invites comparison with his contemporaries, such as Charles Dickens and George Eliot. Wilkie Collins, often hailed as one of the pioneers of the mystery genre, drew upon his own life experiences in crafting "Armadale." His familiarity with the legal system and the complexities of human relationships provided the foundation for a narrative steeped in intrigue and moral ambiguity. Collinss social observations and personal struggles, including his tumultuous relationships and health challenges, resonate vividly throughout the novel, informing his characters journeys and ethical dilemmas. This compelling work is recommended for readers who appreciate a sophisticated exploration of psychological suspense and societal critique. "Armadale" is not only a landmark in Collinss literary career but also a timeless reflection on the human condition, making it essential reading for enthusiasts of classic mysteries.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.- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the authors life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.- 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.

In "The Mystery Novels of Wilkie Collins," readers are invited to delve into the intricate narratives that laid the groundwork for the modern detective genre. Collins adeptly weaves suspenseful plots characterized by meticulous attention to detail, rich characterizations, and an innovative use of unreliable narrators. His novels, such as "The Woman in White" and "The Moonstone," serve as a mirror to Victorian societys anxieties regarding identity, gender, and morality, all while providing thrilling twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The books literary style employs a blend of realism and sensationalism, making it an essential study for enthusiasts of Gothic literature and mystery fiction alike. Wilkie Collins, often heralded as the father of the mystery novel, was influenced by his career as a playwright and his close association with contemporary writers like Charles Dickens. His unique position within the cultural milieu of Victorian England allowed him to experiment with narrative forms and themes that reflected his own experiences as a man of literature and social reformer. Collinss personal struggles with health and his complex relationships with women infused his work with an authenticity that resonates deeply within his stories. For those intrigued by the evolution of the mystery genre, Collinss works are indispensable. This anthology not only showcases his exceptional storytelling prowess but also invites readers to explore the deeper societal questions embedded within his narratives. "The Mystery Novels of Wilkie Collins" is highly recommended for both literary scholars and casual readers who seek a compelling connection to the origins of suspense in literature.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.- An Author Biography reveals milestones in the authors life, illuminating the personal insights behind the text.- 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.

The "Complete Works of Wilkie Collins" is a monumental collection that encompasses the full range of Collinss literary output, including his celebrated novels, gripping short stories, enlightening essays, and theatrical works. Known for pioneering the detective genre, Collins masterfully intertwines suspense and social commentary within his narratives. His distinctive style blends vivid characterization with intricate plotting, employing a rich tapestry of narrative techniques, including unreliable narrators and multiple perspectives, all set against the backdrop of Victorian society, where issues of social class and gender are deftly explored. Wilkie Collins (1824-1889) was a contemporary of Charles Dickens and a prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene. His personal experiences, such as living with chronic illness and navigating complex familial relationships, deeply informed his writing. Collinss friendships with notable literary figures and his keen interest in the burgeoning fields of psychology and sociology are reflected in his works, offering modern readers both entertainment and profound insights into human nature. This comprehensive anthology is an essential acquisition for literary enthusiasts and scholars alike, as it not only preserves Collinss artistic legacy but also illuminates the socio-cultural dynamics of 19th-century England. Readers are invited to delve into the ingenuity of Collinss storytelling, where every story unravels a compelling narrative, encouraging reflection on morality and society.In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.- The Author Biography highlights personal milestones and literary influences that shape the entire body of writing.- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader erasocial currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different works strengths.- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the authors overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.- Lastly, our handpicked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collections central themes.

A delightful meditation on the pleasures of bachelor bonding and an example of collaborative journalism at its best _x000D_ _x000D_In autumn 1857, Charles Dickens embarked on a sightseeing trip to Cumberland with his friend, the rising star of literature Wilkie Collins. Writing together, they reported their adventures for Dickens periodical Household Words, producing a showcase of both long-cherished and entirely novel sides of these well-loved men of letters. Boasting two ghost stories from undisputed masters of the genre, it also uniquely demonstrates their glee in caricaturing themselves and one anotherCollins assumes the identity of Thomas Idle (a born-and-bred idler) and Dickens that of Francis Goodchild (laboriously idle). Through their fictional counterparts, the men relentlessly satirize Dickens maniacal energy and Collins idleness. The result is an exuberant diary of a journey and a rare insight into one of literatures most famed and intriguing friendships.

The Moonstone, a yellow diamond looted from an Indian temple and believed to bring bad luck to its owner, is bequeathed to Rachel Verinder on her eighteenth birthday. That very night the priceless stone is stolen again and when Sergeant Cuff is brought in to investigate the crime, he soon realizes that no one in Rachels household is above suspicion. Hailed by T. S. Eliot as the first, the longest, and the best of modern English detective novels, The Moonstone is a marvellously taut and intricate tale of mystery, in which facts and memory can prove treacherous and not everyone is as they first appear.

"Doble engaño"debe inscribirse plenamente en el género melodramático. En otras manos, este folletín no habría ido más allá de la simple novela rosa, pero en las de Collins el género incluye otras dimensiones. De facil y amena lectura,"Doble engaño", donde se relatan las desventuras de la desdichada Mercy Merrick, es una novela que muestra sus cartas desde el principio y, a pesar de ello, mantiene intacto su interes hasta el punto final.debe inscribirse plenamente en el genero melodramatico. En otras manos, este folletin no habria ido mas alla de la simple novela rosa, pero en las de Collins el genero incluye otras dimensiones. De facil y amena lectura, , donde se relatan las desventuras de la desdichada Mercy Merrick, es una novela que muestra sus cartas desde el principio y, a pesar de ello, mantiene intacto su interes hasta el punto final.