Books by "John Le Gay Brereton"
12 books found
The Dutch Courtesan is a riotous tragicomedy that explores the delights and perils afforded by Jacobean London. While Freevill, an educated young Englishman and the play's nominal hero, frolics in the city's streets, taverns and brothels, Franceschina, his cast-off mistress and the Dutch courtesan of the play's title,laments his betrayal and plots revenge. Juxtaposing Franceschina's vulnerable financial position against the unappealing marital prospects available to gentry women, the play undermines the language of romance, revealing it to be rooted in the commerce and commodification. Marston's commentary on financial insecurity and the hypocritical repudiation of foreignness makes The Dutch Courtesan truly a document for our time.
Fully annotated edition of the most powerful of Beaumont and Fletcher's plays
In "The King of the Golden River," John Ruskin crafts a richly imaginative fairy tale resonating with moral allegory, set within the picturesque backdrop of the Tyrol Alps. This purported children's story stands out in Ruskin's oeuvre, blending elements of fantasy and social commentary while employing a lyrical and ornate narrative style reminiscent of the Pre-Raphaelites. The tale intertwines the theme of greed versus generosity, as it follows the journey of young Gluck who, with his kinder spirit, is pitted against his avaricious brothers in a quest for gold and redemption, ultimately culminating in a poignant critique of materialism. Ruskin, a prominent Victorian art critic, social thinker, and philanthropist, infused his works with deep reflections on nature, society, and ethics. His profound appreciation for natural beauty, combined with a passionate critique of industrialization, undoubtedly shaped the moral foundations of "The King of the Golden River." By drawing from his experiences in the art world and his commitment to social reform, Ruskin encapsulates essential human values in this enchanting tale. This richly illustrated book serves as a profound yet accessible introduction to Ruskin's philosophy and aesthetic ideals, making it a must-read for both young audiences and adults seeking escapism through meaningful literature. His masterful synthesis of moral wisdom imbued in a whimsical narrative will leave readers reflecting on their values long after the last page.