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The Portrait of a Lady + The Bostonians + The Tragic Muse + Daisy Miller (4 Unabridged Classics) - Enriched edition - cover

The Portrait of a Lady + The Bostonians + The Tragic Muse + Daisy Miller (4 Unabridged Classics) - Enriched edition

Henry James

Publisher: DigiCat

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Summary

Henry James's *The Portrait of a Lady*, *The Bostonians*, *The Tragic Muse*, and *Daisy Miller* are seminal texts that showcase his mastery over psychological realism and intricate character development. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century America and Europe, these novels delve into themes of freedom, gender, class, and the complexities of personal relationships. James's exquisite prose and nuanced narrative techniques, characterized by his use of stream-of-consciousness and a keen sensitivity to social mores, invite readers to explore the inner lives of his protagonists, particularly the struggles of women striving for autonomy in restrictive societal frameworks. Henry James (1843-1916) was a pivotal figure in the transition from Victorian literature to modernism. Born into a family steeped in intellectual discourse, he traveled extensively and was deeply influenced by European culture. His experiences as a transatlantic writer enriched his exploration of identity and belonging, crucial to understanding the dynamics of his characters who often navigate the tensions between their aspirations and societal expectations. I recommend this collection not only for its remarkable literary merit but also for its profound insights into human behavior and the socio-cultural landscapes of the time. Readers will find themselves captivated by James's ability to probe the depths of individual consciousness and societal constructs, making these classics timeless and indispensable for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of life and relationships.

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 era—social 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 work's strengths.
- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.
- Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.
Available since: 11/13/2023.
Print length: 1615 pages.

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