The Life of Henry James: A Critical Biography

The Life of Henry James: A Critical Biography is a comprehensive and insightful account of the life and work of Henry James, one of America's finest writers. It explores his personal and cultural experiences, his fiction, essays, biographies, autobiographies, travel writing, plays, and reviews, and highlights his gift for friendship, his European cultural immersion, and his belief in the power of the arts to enhance and give significance to life. The book is written by Peter Collister, an established critic and authority on Henry James.

Format: Electronic book text
Publication date: 22 March 2023
Publisher: Wiley

Discover the captivating life and profound influence of Henry James, a celebrated figure in the esteemed Wiley Blackwell Critical Biographies series. In Peter Collister's meticulously researched and extensively documented The Life of Henry James: A Critical Biography, readers embark on a journey into the world of one of America's most revered writers. James, hailed as both a creative practitioner and a theorist of the novel, left an indelible mark on literature, captivating readers with his profound insights and captivating storytelling.

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate tapestry of James's life, encompassing his personal experiences and cultural milieu. It explores his upbringing in New York City, his unconventional education, his extensive travels throughout Europe, and his eventual integration into British society. Collister sheds light on James's development as a writer, from his early works to his masterpieces, and examines the personal relationships that shaped his life as a single man.

The book also features insightful discussions of James's major works across various genres, including fiction, essays, biographies, autobiographies, travel writing, plays, and reviews. Collister's analysis provides a deep understanding of James's artistic vision and the societal and cultural contexts that influenced his writing. Through his judicious use of previously unpublished letters and other personal documents, Collister evokes the society within which James lived and worked, bringing his words to life in the novelists' own voice.

James's remarkable gift for friendship, which often led to close relationships with both men and women, is explored in depth. The book sheds light on his complex relationships and the impact they had on his artistic journey. It also highlights his unwavering belief in the power of the arts to enhance and give significance to life, a belief that sustained him throughout his long and productive life.

The Life of Henry James: A Critical Biography is a treasure trove of information and insights, offering a comprehensive and engaging portrait of one of the greatest writers of the 19th century. Whether you are a scholar, a literary enthusiast, or simply someone seeking to explore the rich tapestry of human experience, this book is a must-read.

ISBN-13: 9781119483083
Edition number: 1