The "E. W. HORNUNG Ultimate Collection" is a compendium that encapsulates the diverse literary landscape of E. W. Hornung, featuring 19 novels and over 40 short stories, alongside poignant war poems and compelling memoirs. Hornung's writing is characterized by its vivid characterizations, intricate plotting, and a balanced blend of romance, adventure, and moral dilemmas. This collection showcases his ability to navigate genres, reflecting societal changes during the late Victorian and early Edwardian periods, with themes of heroism, loyalty, and the human condition resonating throughout his works. E. W. Hornung, renowned for creating the iconic character A.J. Raffles, the gentleman thief, was deeply influenced by his personal experiences and sociocultural milieu. Born in 1866, he was intimately familiar with the complexities of British society. His varied career as a writer, editor, and sportsman, particularly his experiences during the First World War, inspired his exploration of themes related to valor and loss in this collection. Hornung's dual identity as both a writer and a soldier adds a nuanced layer to his explorations of conflict and morality. This ultimate collection is a significant treasure for both ardent fans of Hornung and new readers alike. It invites readers to delve into the intricacies of human character through the lens of war, adventure, and romance. Highly recommended for those interested in classic literature, this compilation also serves as an essential resource for understanding the evolution of early 20th-century storytelling.
In this enriched edition, we have carefully created added value for your reading experience:
- A comprehensive Introduction outlines these selected works' unifying features, themes, or stylistic evolutions.
- A Historical Context section situates the works in their broader era—social currents, cultural trends, and key events that underpin their creation.
- A concise Synopsis (Selection) offers an accessible overview of the included texts, helping readers navigate plotlines and main ideas without revealing critical twists.
- A unified Analysis examines recurring motifs and stylistic hallmarks across the collection, tying the stories together while spotlighting the different work's strengths.
- Reflection questions inspire deeper contemplation of the author's overarching message, inviting readers to draw connections among different texts and relate them to modern contexts.
- Lastly, our hand‐picked Memorable Quotes distill pivotal lines and turning points, serving as touchstones for the collection's central themes.
