Showing results by author "Maria Edgeworth" in All Categories

Published in 1801, Maria Edgeworth’s Belinda is an absorbing novel that mirrors social and domestic life among the English gentry. In her pursuit of a suitable marriage, Belinda encounters an array of characters including the dazzling socialite Lady Delacourt, the feminist Harriet Freke, the wealthy and handsome West Indian Mr Vincent and the impulsive Clarence Hervey.

Set in Ireland prior to its achieving legislative independence from Britain in 1782, Castle Rackrent tells the story of three generations of an estate. One of the main sources of inspiration for the novel was a chronicle of her own family history called The Black Book of Edgeworthstown, which contain legal struggles of the Edgeworth's similar to those portrayed in the novel.

The Irish Classics Collection is a wide-ranging collection of 9 classic works of fiction and poetry by Irish authors, read by an award-winning cast of narrators. Included here are stories by some of the greatest writers of all time, including James Joyce; Bram Stoker; Oscar Wilde; W.B. Yeats; Elizabeth Bowen; and more.

The 18th Century Classics Collection steps into the vibrant and tumultuous world of 18th century Europe. With this captivating anthology of some of the most influential works of 1700s literature, we encounter biting satire, passionate romance, and political tumultuousness. From the philosophical musings of Candide to the dark, gothic suspense of The Monk, this collection provides an eclectic mix of narrative styles and genres, capturing the essence of an age marked by intellectual revolution, social upheaval, and profound artistic expression.

Dive into a charming collection of six enchanting tales featuring children, penned by some of the most celebrated authors of the time, including Charles Lamb, Mary Lamb, Maria Edgeworth, and Alicia Catherine Mant. These beautifully crafted stories not only capture the essence of childhood adventures but also resonate with adult readers, making them a delightful experience for all ages. - Summary by Phil Chenevert

Dive into a captivating collection of short stories from a renowned Irish author dedicated to championing humanity and alleviating the struggles of the oppressed and impoverished. This collection, narrated by Christine Rottger, offers profound insights and poignant tales that resonate with the heart and spirit of social justice.

Maria Edgeworth, a celebrated author of her time and a beloved writer among literary giants like Jane Austen, invites readers into the world of “Ormond,” her captivating 1817 coming-of-age novel. The story follows Harry Ormond, a young man with his “heart in the right place,” yet struggling with his character as he navigates the challenges of adolescence. As he approaches adulthood, the central question looms “What kind of man will he become?” Influenced by the literature he consumes—works by Fielding, Richardson, and the French Enlightenment—Harry’s true development, however...

Published in 1812, “The Absentee” by Maria Edgeworth delves into the social injustices that plagued 19th-century Britain. The narrative focuses on the absenteeism of Anglo-Irish landlords, particularly as we follow the lives of Lord and Lady Clonbrony. Struggling with debt, Lord Clonbrony faces the consequences of neglecting his estate, while Lady Clonbrony yearns to distance herself from her Irish roots to gain status among London’s elite, known as “the ton.” Their son, Lord Colambre, however, is skeptical of high societys allure and retreats to the family estate in Ireland, where ...

In Harrington, we delve into the life of the titular character as he embarks on a journey to unpack his complex feelings towards Jews. The story unfolds with Harringtons early perceptions shaped by tales from his maid about a figure named Simon the Jew, further reinforced by his parents troubling reinforcement of his antisemitic views. However, everything shifts when Harrington attends public school and encounters the ruthless bully Mowbray, whose torment of a Jewish peddler named Jacob forces Harrington to confront his biases. The arrival of Berenice Montenero, an American Jew who relocates ...

When Belinda was published in 1801, it quickly stirred both controversy and acclaim. Its bold portrayal of an interracial marriage raised eyebrows, while its sharp wit and keen observations of society made it a beloved comedy of manners, akin to Fanny Burneys Evelina. The story follows the tender-hearted 17-year-old Belinda, who journeys to London with her aunt, who is determined to secure her a suitable match. But what if Belindas heart leads her to love? Clarence Hervey, the object of her affection, seems an unlikely suitor, as he is secretly preparing another woman to be the ideal wife. ...

Maria Edgeworth, a remarkable Anglo-Irish author, made significant contributions to both adult and childrens literature. Renowned as one of the pioneers of realism in childrens writing, she played a crucial role in shaping the European novel. With progressive views for her era on topics like estate management, politics, and education, Edgeworths work remains highly relevant. In 1830, at the age of sixty, she embarked on her final and arguably most celebrated novel, Helen. A glance at this work reveals a striking departure from her earlier style, marking a transition from the eighteenth century...

Castle Rackrent by Maria Edgeworth is a classic Irish novel that delves into the decline of the Rackrent estate, capturing the complexities of Irish society and politics in the 18th century. Written in the form of a satirical family history, it presents the perspectives of various tenants, each reflecting the socio-political dynamics of the time. Edgeworth’s sharp commentary on landlord-tenant relationships, class struggles, and national identity offers a profound exploration of Irish culture. The novel is an essential read for those interested in historical fiction, Irish literature, and ...

Después de casar a media docena de sobrinas con caballeros de gran fortuna, la señora Stanhope quiere asegurarle el mejor futuro a la última de ellas, Belinda, y nadie más adecuado para introducirla en la alta sociedad que su amiga lady Delacour, la mujer más frívola e influyente de todo Londres. De su mano, la joven se sumerge en un mundo deslumbrante, en el que brilla con luz propia el encantador Clarence Hervey, aunque las fiestas y los devaneos ocultan secretos y tragedias, y las amistades más deslumbrantes esconden intereses ocultos.

Set in a quaint, retired hamlet nestled between Oswestry and Shrewsbury in Wales, Simple Susan is a charming childrens story from Maria Edgeworths The Parents Assistant. This delightful tale explores the contrasting lives of the litigious attorney, Mr. Case, and his suspicious children, against the backdrop of their simple and peaceful neighbors, the Price family. With timeless lessons that resonate across social divides, this story imparts valuable insights for children of all backgrounds—rich and poor, powerful and weak, and everyone in between. (Summary by Lori Arsenault)

All too often the talents of women have been scorned, mocked and laughed at. In reality that was more usually by those whose own talents were hardly fit to even grace their shadows. But society in general still connived and set women to one side in almost everything that men considered their rightful territory. And literature was one such territory. Remarkably resilient as well as talented these women strove to be published, to show themselves as equals. The results more often than not proved that they were.

In a masterstroke of literary brilliance, Maria Edgeworth introduces us to Castle Rackrent, an unforgettable narrative of the 1780s Ireland. First published in 1800, this novel is a satirical portrayal of the Anglo-Irish landlords mismanagement of their Irish estates amidst the debates on the Act of Union. The story unfolds through the eyes of Honest Thady, a loyal steward to the Rackrent family, and his astute son Jason Quirk who brings a resolution, albeit a disappointing one for Thady. Join us on this journey through history, where we meet an array of fascinating characters, from the ...

Siendo solo un niño, Henry Ormond pierde a su madre y su padre lo abandona. Compadeciéndose de él, Ulick O’Shane, un irlandés acomodado, lo adopta y lo cría junto a su hijo Marcus. Ambos jóvenes se meten en muchos líos cuando llegan a la adolescencia pero, tras verse implicados en un tiroteo en el que casi muere un joven, y viendo que la esposa de O’Shane no lo quiere en su casa, Ormond se va a vivir con el primo rico de su tutor, alguien a quien apodan «King Corny».