Henry Arthur Jones was among the most prominent British dramatists of his day. A contemporary of Pinero, Wilde and Shaw, he did his best to elevate drama to the level of literature whilst constructing plays that were also successful in the commercial theatre. Though some of his contemporaries considered him cynical and daring, he strove to confront major issues without offending accepted social and dramatic conventions. This volume contains three of Jones's ninety-odd plays, representing the best of his work in different styles: melodrama and society drama. The Silver King (1882), the story of a man, falsely accused of murder, was Jones's first great success. It is one of the best melodramas ever written, and won high praise from Matthew Arnold for its literary merit and convincing characterisation. Jones's interest in the 'New Woman' of the 1890s is expressed in the lively dialogue of The Case of Rebellious Susan (1894), whose heroine is advised to renounce her new lover and return to her faithless husband - scarely a radical conclusion, but sympathetically handled. The Liars (1897) is a fine comedy of manners which again considers the question of marriage and the role of women in society. Dr Jackson's full introduction places Jones in the context of late Victorian society and theatre and describes his other literary activities - the published letters and essays on drama - as well as discussing some of the plays not included here. The volume is illustrated by contemporary production prints.
The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling" by Henry Fielding is a literary classic that invites readers into the lively world of 18th-century England. This epic novel follows the adventures of Tom Jones, a charming and charismatic foundling, as he embarks on a journey of love, intrigue, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a society filled with hypocrisy and moral ambiguity, Fielding's novel is a rollicking tale that combines humor, satire, and social commentary. Tom's encounters with a colorful cast of characters, including the lovely Sophia Western and the pompous Squire Allworthy, lead to a series of misadventures and unexpected twists. As Tom navigates the complexities of love and relationships, he grapples with questions of identity and morality. Fielding's skillful storytelling and vivid characterizations breathe life into every page, creating a world that feels both timeless and relatable. "The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling" is not just a novel; it's a sweeping exploration of human nature, societal norms, and the enduring quest for love and acceptance. With its wit, charm, and enduring relevance, this masterpiece continues to captivate readers, making it a must-read for literature enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Dive into the captivating world of Tom Jones and experience the joys and challenges of his tumultuous journey. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Henry Fielding (1707-1754) was an English novelist and playwright known for his witty and satirical works. Born in Somerset, England, Fielding pursued a career in law before turning to writing. He is best known for his novel ""Tom Jones,"" a humorous and picaresque tale of a young man's adventures. Fielding's writing style was characterized by his keen sense of humor and his social commentary. He often used his works to critique the moral and social issues of his time. In addition to ""Tom Jones,"" he wrote other novels, including ""Joseph Andrews"" and ""Amelia."" Fielding's contributions to English literature include his pioneering efforts in the development of the novel as a literary form. His works are celebrated for their colorful characters, intricate plots, and sharp wit. Today, he is regarded as one of the prominent writers of the 18th century, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of literature.
Henry Arthur Jones (1851-1929) a successful English playwright and commentator on "all forms of dramatic art," offers "essays in burlesque, serious drama, comedy and tragedy," laments the lack of venues for one-act plays, and sets forth three one-acts of his own. Oscar Wilde quipped that "There are three rules for writing plays. The first rule is not to write like Henry Arthur Jones; the second and third rules are the same.
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