Books in the Writers Lives series

Oscar Wilde's reputation has shifted dramatically during the twentieth century from outcast in the wake of his trials for homosexual offences, to martyr to the gay cause in the 1980s and 90s, to important figure in the history of writing in English. This title offers readers a short, readable introduction to Oscar Wilde's life, work and afterlife.

Part of a series, which provides concise introductions to major writers focusing equally on their life and works. Often seen as the quintessential Victorian novelist, Charles Dickens is without doubt a literary giant. This book provides a short introduction to Dickens's work and the personal and social context in which it was written.

An introduction to Shakespeare's life and work which focuses on what we know, assessing the differing theories and avoiding speculation. It offers a reassessment of Shakespeare and his creative output from his earliest work through his 'mature' drama and the late plays.

A biography of one of the most important writers in English of the late twentieth century and early twenty-first century. It offers fresh insights into his life and work, concentrating on the themes, patterns, relationships, ideas and language common to his life and creative output.

George Eliot (1819-1880) was one of the leading writers of the Victorian period and one of Britain's great novelists. This biography offers insights into Eliot's life and work focusing on the themes, patterns, relationships, feelings and language common to her life and writing. It offers an illuminating portrait of her as a woman and a writer.