The Fiddler of the Reels and Other Stories 1888-1900
(Author) Thomas HardyThe eleven short storiesin this collection range from those with the Wessex setting familiar from Hardy's novels, to aristocratic historical fantasies set in the 17th and 18th centuries, and tragic or ironic contemporary dramas. Enormously readable in their own right, thestories can also be seen as a rich testing ground for ideas and themes that receive more sustained treatment in Hardy's most innovative and controversial novels. For more than seventy years, Penguin has been the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world. With more than 1,700 titles, Penguin Classics represents a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators.
Thomas Hardy
Thomas Hardy was an English novelist and poet known for his novels set in the fictional county of Wessex, which explored themes of rural life, social class, and the changing landscape of England. Some of his most notable works include "Tess of the d'Urbervilles," "Far from the Madding Crowd," and "The Mayor of Casterbridge."
Hardy's writing style is characterized by his use of natural imagery, detailed descriptions of the English countryside, and his exploration of the complexities of human relationships. His works often challenge Victorian moral conventions and highlight the struggles of ordinary people in a rapidly changing society.
Hardy's contributions to literature include his innovative use of symbolism, his exploration of the impact of modernization on rural communities, and his portrayal of strong, independent female characters. His novels have had a lasting impact on the literary genre of the English novel, influencing later writers such as D.H. Lawrence and Virginia Woolf.
One of Hardy's most famous works is "Tess of the d'Urbervilles," which tells the tragic story of a young woman who is betrayed by the social expectations of her time. This novel is considered a classic of English literature and continues to be studied and admired for its powerful storytelling and social commentary.