Description
Book SynopsisThis collection takes a fresh look at issues raised not only in Smollett's novels, for which he is usually remembered, but also in other works of this prolific Scottish author. Essays include a demonstration beyond reasonable doubt, after more than two centuries of debate, that it was indeed Smollett who authored 'The Memoires of a Lady of Quality' in the Adventures of Peregrine Pickle, with material supplied to him by Frances, Lady Vane; an examination of Smollett's contributions in the Adventures of Ferdinand Count Fathom to the rise of the Gothic novel; an analysis of the role his An Essay on the External Use of Water (1752) played in the conception of his last novel, the Expedition of Humphrey Clinker; and an exploration of the relationship between satire and graphic art in History and Adventures of an Atom. There is also a thorough review and re-evaluation of Smollett's encounter with Laurence Sterne in the south of France, and the exchange between Yorick and Smelfungus, 'one of the great fictional encounters in English literature'; a canvassing of the details of Smollett's 'Paper War' with Henry Fielding; and two essays on Smollett's undeservedly neglected History of England, one addressing the complicated relationships between Smollett's and David Hume's History of England; the second distinguishing for the first time the authoritative editions of the History and providing a descriptive bibliography.
Trade ReviewIn their variety and excellence, the essays assembled in Tobias Smollett, Scotland's First Novelist do honor to the memory of the genial scholar who did so much to assure that the reputation of his beloved author will continue to grow in ours. * Modern Philology *
