The '60 GOTHIC CLASSICS - Boxed Set' encompasses an unparalleled collection of dark fantasy novels, supernatural mysteries, horror tales, and gothic romances, offering an expansive exploration of the Gothic tradition that has shaped much of the literary landscape from the 18th century to the early 20th century. This anthology encapsulates the varied narrative structures, themes of transgression, decay, and the sublime, and the richly painted settings of isolation and melancholy inherent in Gothic literature. The selection thrives on its diversity, featuring foundational texts of the genre alongside lesser-known gems that collectively underscore the depth and complexity of Gothic fiction. The inclusion of works from a broad spectrum of authors, ranging from the brooding landscapes of the Brontë sisters to the psychological depths explored by Edgar Allan Poe, showcases the genres ability to evolve and adapt, remaining vibrant and profoundly influential over the decades. The contributing authors and editors of this collection are titans in the literary world, whose individual and collective contributions have not only defined the contours of Gothic fiction but also influenced numerous cultural and literary movements. The backgrounds of these authors, encompassing the transformative periods of Romanticism, Victorianism, and early modernism, offer a rich tapestry of socio-political contexts that deeply inform their Gothic creations. This diversity of perspective enriches the collection, allowing readers to traverse the manifold expressions of Gothic tension and terror while engaging with the historical conditions that spurred their creation. '60 GOTHIC CLASSICS - Boxed Set' is essential reading for anyone eager to delve into the shadowy corridors of Gothic literature. It presents a unique opportunity to experience the multifaceted dimensions of fear, obsession, and longing that characterize the genre. This anthology not only serves as a comprehensive educational resource but also invites readers to witness the dialogues between different epochs, cultural shifts, and literary styles. It is a testament to the enduring allure and relevance of Gothic fiction, making it a must-have for scholars, enthusiasts, and newcomers alike.
Charles John Huffam Dickens (1812-1870) was a writer and social critic who created some of the world's best-known fictional characters and is regarded as the greatest novelist of the Victorian era. His works enjoyed unprecedented popularity during his lifetime, and by the twentieth century critics and scholars had recognised him as a literary genius. His novels and short stories enjoy lasting popularity.
Dickens left school to work in a factory when his father was incarcerated in a debtors' prison. Despite his lack of formal education, he edited a weekly journal for 20 years, wrote 15 novels, five novellas, hundreds of short stories and non-fiction articles, lectured and performed extensively, was an indefatigable letter writer, and campaigned vigorously for children's rights, education, and other social reforms.
Dickens was regarded as the literary colossus of his age. His 1843 novella, A Christmas Carol, remains popular and continues to inspire adaptations in every artistic genre. Oliver Twist and Great Expectations are also frequently adapted, and, like many of his novels, evoke images of early Victorian London. His 1859 novel, A Tale of Two Cities, set in London and Paris, is his best-known work of historical fiction. Dickens's creative genius has been praised by fellow writers—from Leo Tolstoy to George Orwell and G. K. Chesterton—for its realism, comedy, prose style, unique characterisations, and social criticism. On the other hand, Oscar Wilde, Henry James, and Virginia Woolf complained of a lack of psychological depth, loose writing, and a vein of saccharine sentimentalism. The term Dickensian is used to describe something that is reminiscent of Dickens and his writings, such as poor social conditions or comically repulsive characters.
On 8 June 1870, Dickens suffered another stroke at his home after a full day's work on Edwin Drood. He never regained consciousness, and the next day he died at Gad's Hill Place. Contrary to his wish to be buried at Rochester Cathedral "in an inexpensive, unostentatious, and strictly private manner," he was laid to rest in the Poets' Corner of Westminster Abbey. A printed epitaph circulated at the time of the funeral reads: "To the Memory of Charles Dickens (England's most popular author) who died at his residence, Higham, near Rochester, Kent, 9 June 1870, aged 58 years. He was a sympathiser with the poor, the suffering, and the oppressed; and by his death, one of England's greatest writers is lost to the world." His last words were: "On the ground", in response to his sister-in-law Georgina's request that he lie down.