Letters on Literature: Exploring the Depths of Literary Insight and Analysis
Andrew Lang
Dec 2019 · Good Press
4.8star
4 reviewsreport
Ebook
168
Pages
family_home
Eligible
info
reportRatings and reviews aren’t verified Learn More
About this ebook
In "Letters on Literature," Andrew Lang presents a thought-provoking exploration of literary criticism, weaving together personal letters that touch upon various facets of literature, art, and philosophy. His engaging prose reveals a style enriched by his deep passion for storytelling and an acumen for illuminating the connections between diverse literary movements of the late 19th century. Through a series of articulate reflections, Lang addresses both contemporary literary figures and the timeless classics, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the literary landscape, whilst simultaneously advocating for a broad-minded approach to literary interpretation. Andrew Lang, a renowned Scottish poet, novelist, and critic, was not just a prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene; his scholarly pursuits and deep familiarity with folklore and mythology informed his critical lens. His extensive background in classical literature and folkloristics likely inspired him to frame his thoughts in a way that engages with the essence of what literature encapsulates, driving him to write "Letters on Literature" as both a personal and academic exploration of literary ideals. For scholars, students, and avid readers alike, this collection offers invaluable insights and a refreshing perspective on literary critique. Lang'Äôs eloquence and intellect not only enrich our understanding but invite us to challenge and expand our own literary horizons. Immerse yourself in these letters to discover the timeless beauty of literature through Lang'Äôs discerning eyes.
Ratings and reviews
4.8
4 reviews
Neer op
- Flag inappropriate
November 16, 2021
🥺🥺
1 person found this review helpful
About the author
Andrew Lang's activities extended far beyond folklore. He was a historian, poet, journalist, translator, and anthropologist, in connection with his work on literary texts. Lang was born at Selkirk in Scotland and was educated at Edinburgh Academy, St. Andrews University, and Balliol College, Oxford University, becoming a fellow at Merton College. His poetry includes Ballads and Lyrics of Old France (1872), Ballades in Blue China (1880--81), and Grass of Parnassus (1888--92). His anthropology and his defense of the value of folklore as the basis of religion---his most influential work---is expressed in Custom and Myth (1884), Myth, Ritual and Religion (1887), and The Making of Religion (1898). He also translated Homer and critiqued James G. Frazer's views of mythology as expressed in The Golden Bough. He was considered a good historian, with a readable narrative style and knowledge of the original sources (e.g., History of Scotland [1900--7], James VI and the Gowrie Mystery [1902], and Sir George Mackenzie [1909]). In addition, he wrote some novels, not well thought of today; however, his critiques of contemporary novels are still highly regarded. Lang's popularity was established with his collections of "Fairy" books, which were always titled with a color, such as The Blue Fairy Book. These books preserved and handed down many of the better-known folk tales from the time; however, his use of the term "fairy" to cover all kinds of folk tales continues to plague scholars, who generally distinguish between the terms "fairy" and "folk," judging fairy tales to be more of a fanciful creation and less grounded in cultural experiences, customs, and beliefs.
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
