The Collected Works
Arnold Bennett
Nov 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
8902
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About this ebook
Arnold Bennett's 'The Collected Works' is a comprehensive anthology encompassing the rich tapestry of early 20th-century English literature. This formidable collection showcases Bennett's versatility, ranging from the satirical 'The Card' to the profound psychological exploration found in 'The Old Wives' Tale'. His novels often reflect the transformation of society during the industrial revolution within the 'Five Towns', his quasi-fictional representation of the Staffordshire Potteries region. Bennett's literary style combines realism with a finely tuned ear for regional dialogue. Dynamic characterization and sharp social critique underpin his literary context, inviting readers to partake in an evocative journey through varied human experiences. Arnold Bennett is considered one of the foremost figures bridging the 19th and 20th-century novel traditions. The richly detailed tapestry of his works in this collection reveals his deep connection to the Potteries of North Staffordshire, the inspiration for his 'Five Towns' novels. His background in journalism aided his deft character sketches and nuanced socio-political commentary, illustrating the mundane and the extraordinary within everyday life. Bennett's profound understanding of the human condition and society's shifting sands emerges clearly in this opus, cementing his legacy as a chronicler of English life. 'The Collected Works' by Arnold Bennett is essential for readers who cherish the breadth of classic literature. It is a testament to Bennett's prolific writing across genres, offering insights into the human psyche while providing a vivid portrayal of English society across the span of his career. Scholars and enthusiasts of early 20th-century writing will appreciate the comprehensive scope and enduring relevance of Bennett's narratives. The collection stands as an illuminating reflection of a rapidly changing world, as encapsulated through the nuance and wit of one of literature's great observers.
About the author
Enoch Arnold Bennett (1867–1931) was a distinguished English novelist, playwright, critic, and essayist, renowned for his perceptive insights into the provincial life of the English Midlands. Born in Hanley, Staffordshire, now a part of Stoke-on-Trent, Bennett's early career in law and journalism laid the foundation for his literary aspirations. His experiences in these fields are reflected in the vivid, naturalistic style that characterizes his work. Bennett achieved significant acclaim with his series of novels set in the 'Five Towns,' an amalgamation of the pottery towns in the area he grew up. Notable works include 'Anna of the Five Towns' (1902) and 'The Old Wives' Tale' (1908), the latter being hailed for its rich detail and character development. His 1903 book 'The Grand Babylon Hotel' broke the mold as an adventure novel, displaying Bennett's versatility. He was also a prolific playwright and an influential voice in literary criticism, contributing regularly to periodicals of his time. While Bennett's reputation may have fluctuated posthumously, his literary output has remained significant, as evident in collections like 'The Collected Works of Arnold Bennett.' His legacy is a testament to his shrewd observations of human nature and the societal norms of the early 20th century. Despite criticism from contemporaries like Virginia Woolf for his literary realism and 'materialism', Bennett's work continues to be valued for its historical and psychological insight, and for its sober, yet empathetic, portrayal of the lives of ordinary people.
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