A Sicilian Romance
Dec 2015 · Otbebookpublishing
Ebook
177
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About this ebook
Ann Radcliffe (née, Ward 9 July 1764 – 7 February 1823) was an eng author and a pioneer of the Gothic novel. Her style is romantic in its vivid descriptions of landscapes and long travel scenes, yet the Gothic element is obvious through her use of the supernatural. It was her technique " the explained supernatural," the final revelation of inexplicable phenomena, that helped the Gothic novel achieve respectability in the 1790s.This early novel explores the cavernous landscapes and labyrinthine passages of Sicily's castles and convents to reveal the shameful secrets of its all-powerful aristocracy. Julia and Emilia Mazzini live secluded in an ancient mansion near the straits of Messina. After their father's return to the island a neglected part of the house is haunted by a series of mysterious sights and sounds. (Excerpt from Wikipedia)
About the author
Ann Ward Radcliffe (1764-1823) stands as a towering figure in the annals of Gothic literature, often hailed as the "Mother of the Gothic Novel." Born in London, Radcliffe's life was shrouded in an aura of mystery that paralleled the eerie atmospheres of her novels. Her works, characterized by their dark, brooding landscapes, intricate plots, and the interplay of terror and sublime beauty, captivated readers and set the stage for the Gothic genre's evolution.Radcliffe's literary career flourished during a time when female authors were often marginalized. Her success not only challenged gender norms but also paved the way for future women writers. Her novels were revolutionary in their use of the supernatural, which she often rationalized by the story's end, a technique that distinguished her from her contemporaries and added layers of psychological depth to her characters.Despite her acclaim, Radcliffe was a private person, rarely appearing in public and maintaining a life away from the literary circles of her time. This reticence fueled speculation and intrigue, with rumors about her personal life and mental state swirling long after her death. Some even speculated that she had gone mad, a testament to the intense emotional impact of her writing.Radcliffe's influence extended far beyond her lifetime, inspiring a host of writers, including Edgar Allan Poe, Mary Shelley, and the Brontë sisters. Her ability to weave suspense with poetic descriptions of nature left an indelible mark on the literary world. In an era of rational Enlightenment, Radcliffe dared to explore the irrational, the mysterious, and the terrifying, securing her place as a pioneer of Gothic fiction.
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