The Amateur Cracksman

E. W. Hornung

2022년 9월 · DigiCat

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E. W. Hornung's "The Amateur Cracksman" is an ingenious collection of short stories that introduces readers to the charming yet morally ambiguous character of A. J. Raffles, a gentleman thief who operates within the high society of Edwardian London. The literary style is characterized by its crisp, witty dialogue and clever plots, often blending elements of mystery and adventure with a touch of dark humor. Set against the backdrop of a burgeoning urban environment where class and privilege clash, Hornung's work contributes significantly to the genre of crime fiction, echoing the cultural fascination with criminality prevalent during the late Victorian and early Edwardian periods. E. W. Hornung, a contemporary and close friend of Arthur Conan Doyle, draws a rich tapestry of inspiration from his own life experiences and observations of the elite. His background in sports and a keen sense of observation allowed him to craft Raffles—a character that flips the traditional detective narrative by presenting a protagonist who is as alluring as he is unscrupulous. The stories reflect Hornung's critique of social conventions and serve as a commentary on moral ambiguity in a rapidly changing society. Engaging and brilliantly layered, "The Amateur Cracksman" is a must-read for enthusiasts of crime literature and those intrigued by complex characters. Hornung's narrative not only entertains but also invites readers to ponder the nature of crime, class, and morality, making it a timeless classic that resonates through the ages.

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Ernest William Hornung, known professionally as E. W. Hornung, was an English author and poet best recognized for his creation of the gentleman thief A.J. Raffles, who first appeared in 'The Amateur Cracksman' (1899). Born on June 7, 1866, in Middlesbrough, England, Hornung spent his early years in England before traveling to Australia, which influenced much of his later writing. Hornung's literary career flourished during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, where he established himself as a notable writer within the crime fiction genre. 'The Amateur Cracksman' is a collection of stories that follows the criminal adventures of Raffles, a character that has been cited as a counterpoint to Hornung's brother-in-law Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famed detective Sherlock Holmes. Hornung's portrayal of Raffles has been viewed as a commentary on British social structure and morality during the turn of the century, often challenging notions of gentlemanly conduct and the infallibility of the British upper class. Aside from the Raffles series, Hornung wrote numerous novels, short stories, and plays, extending his exploration of genres to include adventure, romance, and war narratives. He was also known for his patriotic verse during the First World War following the death of his son, Oscar. Hornung's impact on the crime and adventure genres, as well as his reflections on society in his works, render him a significant but sometimes overlooked figure in English literature. He passed away on March 22, 1921, leaving behind a legacy of literary contributions that continue to be discovered and appreciated by new generations of readers.