The Portrait of a Lady
(Author) Henry JamesDesigned to appeal to the book lover, the Macmillan Collector's Library is a series of beautifully bound pocket-sized gift editions of much loved classic titles. Bound in real cloth, printed on high quality paper, and featuring ribbon markers and gilt edges, Macmillan Collector's Library are books to love and treasure. Intelligent, beautiful and vivacious, Isabel Archer fascinates and intimidates the elite society of Albany, New York. Fiercely protective of her independence, she travels to England with her aunt to escape a persistent suitor but, upon inheriting a considerable fortune, falls into the sway of the devious Mrs Merle who whisks her off to Italy. There she is seduced by the narcissistic Gilbert Osmond, an art collector who will stop at nothing to possess her, and whose connection to Mrs Merle is shrouded in mystery. Widely accepted as Henry James' great masterpiece, The Portrait of a Lady is a poignant and intense exploration of freedom and identity. This Macmillan Collector's Library edition features an introduction by award-winning novelist Colm Tóibín.
Henry James
Henry James was an American novelist and critic known for his psychological realism and exploration of the complexities of human relationships. His most notable works include "The Portrait of a Lady," "The Turn of the Screw," and "The Wings of the Dove." James' writing style is characterized by intricate prose, detailed character development, and nuanced exploration of social conventions and moral dilemmas.
James is considered one of the most important figures in 19th-century American literature, often credited with shaping the modern novel through his innovative narrative techniques and deep psychological insight. His impact on the literary genre of the novel is profound, with many critics and writers citing him as a major influence on their work.
One of Henry James' most famous works is "The Turn of the Screw," a ghost story that explores the themes of innocence, corruption, and the supernatural. The novella is widely regarded as a masterpiece of psychological horror and has been adapted into various film and stage adaptations. Henry James' contributions to literature continue to be celebrated and studied for their profound insights into the human condition and the complexities of human experience.