Hearts of Controversy

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Meynell, Alice, 1847-1922

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Hearts of Controversy" by Alice Meynell is a collection of literary essays written during the early 20th century that delves into the works of notable poets and authors including Alfred Lord Tennyson, Charles Dickens, and the Brontë sisters. The essays explore the evolution of literary reputation, the nuances of poetic style, and the impact of personal experience on creative expression. The central themes revolve around the changing perceptions of literature over time and the enduring qualities that define great writing. At the start of "Hearts of Controversy," Meynell discusses Tennyson's fluctuating reputation, reflecting on the way public opinion has shifted from elevation to critique over the decades. She emphasizes Tennyson's unique style and the dichotomy within his work, praising the majesty of his verse while acknowledging criticism related to his mannerisms. Meynell also addresses Dickens, contrasting his portrayal of good and evil against a backdrop of humor and humanity, alongside an analysis of the Brontë sisters' contributions to literature. Each essay invites readers into a deeper contemplation of the intricacies of literary art and the complexities of its creators, highlighting both the beauty and the turmoil of their experiences. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

Some thoughts of a reader of Tennyson

Dickens as a man of letters

Swinburne's lyrical poetry

Charlotte and Emily Bronte

Charmian

The century of moderation

Credits:

Transcribed from the 1918 Burns & Oates edition by David Price

Notes:

Reading ease score: 63.4 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.

Release date is 1998-03-01