Showing titles in Literary History & Criticism

The Book Club, hosted by Dominic Sandbrook and Tabitha Syrett, brings the historical context behind famous books to life. Each week, the hosts explore a classic or contemporary title, unpacking the world in which it was written and the story behind its author. This is not your typical literature podcast: The Book Club educates AND entertains, leaving you knowing some of the greatest stories ever told.

Pride and Prejudice has delighted generations of readers with its unforgettable cast of characters, carefully choreographed plot, and a hugely entertaining view of the world and its absurdities. With the arrival of eligible young men in their neighbourhood, the lives of Mr and Mrs Bennet and their five daughters are turned inside out and upside down.

You’ve read the books. You’ve seen the films. Now get inside the heads of your favorite Twilight characters (just like Edward can!) in The Psychology of Twilight. Explore the minds and motives of Bella, Edward, Jacob, and more with a deeper look at the series that’s captured the hearts and psyches of millions. Find out: How Edward and Jacob match up in an evolutionary psychology smackdown for Bella’s and our affection. Whether Bella’s motorcycle-riding and cliff diving in New Moon are suicidal or her salvation. Why vampires and werewolves aren’t so different after all (at least psychologically)The emotional appeal of love stories like Bella and Edward’s. Why being a part of Twilight fandom is good for your psychological health. Snuggle up on the closest chaise, and get ready to revisit the Twilight Saga with some professional help.

Doctor Thorne is the third audiobook in Anthony Trollope's series known as the Chronicles of Barsetshire. Long regarded as one of Trollope's greatest works, it is a complex story of love, greed and illegitimacy. Set in fictional Barsetshire, it concerns the romantic challenges facing Doctor Thorne's penniless niece, Mary, and Frank Gresham, the only son of the impoverished squire of Greshambury. Mary falls in love with Frank but he is constrained by the need to marry well to restore the family fortunes.

King Coal, penned by Upton Sinclair and first published in 1917, shines a stark light on the grim working conditions faced by coal miners in the western United States during the 1910s. Like his earlier masterpiece, The Jungle, Sinclair articulates his socialist beliefs through the eyes of Hal Warner, a protagonist ensnared in the relentless machinations of an oppressive capitalist system. This compelling narrative draws inspiration from the real-life Colorado coal strikes of 1914-1915, revealing the harsh realities of labor struggles and the fight for justice. (Summary by Wikipedia) Readers ...

My name is Dr. John Watson, once of the British Army Northumberland Fusilier Regiment, now a true crime podcaster based in Central London. I don't have much experience in criminology, so this is mostly a record of how I met possibly the most brilliant and bizarre person I have ever (and will ever) know. Join me as I document the adventures of Sherlock Holmes. This podcast is property of Goalhanger Podcasts. Copyright 2023. SHERLOCK AND CO. Based on the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

Richard Osman & Marina Hyde share insider knowledge on TV, movies, and pop culture. Stay up to date on what's hot and what's not in entertainment with behind-the-scenes insights from Richard and Marina. As two of the most connected voices in the business, they provide a unique perspective on the latest television series, film releases, and cultural trends. Their podcast explores everything from media gossip to industry secrets, giving listeners the inside track on the world of showbiz. Whether you're a fan of gritty dramas, blockbuster movies, or celebrity news, this podcast is your ultimate ...

Jude the Obscure is Thomas Hardys poignant final novel, originally serialized in magazines before its book release in 1895. The story follows Jude Fawley, a lower-class young man with aspirations of becoming a scholar. He navigates a tumultuous life intertwined with his earthy wife, Arabella, and his intellectual cousin, Sue. This compelling narrative explores deep themes such as class struggle, the pursuit of knowledge, the complexities of marriage, and the shifting landscape of society and belief.

In the heart of 19th-century London, young orphan Oliver Twist endures the harsh realities of child labor. A desperate request for more food leads him to a life on the streets, where he unwittingly finds himself at the center of a notorious gang of pickpockets. Join Oliver on his gripping journey of survival, adventure, and the search for belonging. - Summary by Brad Hamlet Filippone

Lucans sole surviving masterpiece, De Bello Civili, more widely recognized as the Pharsalia, is an epic poem that delves into the fierce civil war between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great. Named after the pivotal Battle of Pharsalus, which unfolded in 48 BC near the ancient city of Pharsalus in Thessaly, this work stands as a significant example of Roman Historic Epic. Unlike many of its contemporaries, divine intervention is notably absent from the narrative, and supernatural occurrences are few and far between. Lucans portrayal of the Civil War serves as a powerful expression of Neronian ...

Nell and her elderly grandfather find themselves on the run after losing their beloved shop and home to the sinister Mr. Quilp. Desperate and determined, Nell’s irresponsible brother believes their grandfather is hiding a fortune meant for her. Teaming up with Quilp, he plots to track them down, aiming to marry Nell off to his easily manipulated friend Nick in hopes of claiming the treasure for himself. Can Nell outsmart her pursuers and escape this grim destiny? The story begins with the first three chapters narrated by Master Humphrey, a character from Dickens other work, Master Humphreys ...

E. M. Forster’s A Passage to India (1924) stands tall among the greatest literary masterpieces of the 20th century, earning its place on Time magazines list of the top 100 English-language novels of all time. Set against the backdrop of a crumbling British Raj, the novel explores the deep-rooted religious and cultural rifts between India’s Hindu and Muslim populations, which historically undermined the local powers needed to challenge colonial rule. Forster skillfully illustrates how these divisions are challenged by a growing collective resistance to the racism, oppression, and ...

Dive into Our Mutual Friend, the final novel completed by the illustrious Charles Dickens. This intricate tale, rich with plots, twists, and vivid characters, unfolds against the backdrop of the murky Thames and the opulence of high society. The story begins with a shocking discovery—a body pulled from the river by the Hexhams. From there, we follow the Boffins, a naive couple who unexpectedly inherit wealth, and their enigmatic secretary, John Rokesmith. We meet the Veneerings, eager newcomers to society, hosting lavish dinner parties for guests they barely know. Bella and Lizzie, hailing ...

Step into the enchanting world of The Odysseys, a timeless collection chronicling Ulysses epic journey home from the Trojan War. Believed to be penned in the 8th century BCE by the legendary blind poet Homer, who likely hailed from the Greek colonies in Asia Minor, these tales have been passed down through generations since the twelfth century BCE. Set during the magnificent Greek Bronze Age, a time when heroic mortals roamed the earth and the Gods often intervened, this verse translation by George Chapman—originally published in 1616—was the first to bring the ancient Greek narrative ...

The Aeneid, a monumental Latin epic crafted by Virgil in the 1st century BC, weaves the legendary tale of Aeneas, a Trojan hero on a quest to reach Italy, where he would become the progenitor of the Romans. The first six books chronicle Aeneas’ adventurous journey from the ruins of Troy to his destined homeland, while the latter half depicts the Trojans hard-fought victory in their war against the Latins. Commissioned by Emperor Augustus, this epic not only glorifies Rome but also offers a poignant commentary on the personal sacrifices made for duty, exemplified in Aeneas’ heart-wrenching ...

In this poignant novella by Trollope, the dreams of an ordinary village girl, Alice Dugdale, are thrown into turmoil when her devoted beau becomes an enticing option for a local noble family. With a blend of affection and sensitivity, Trollope explores the intricate web of emotions and societal expectations that arise from this unexpected situation. - Summary by Anthony Ogus

Dive into Mary Elizabeth Braddons captivating debut novel, Lady Audleys Secret, which took Victorian readers by storm upon its serial publication in 1862. This enthralling tale follows the enchanting Lucy Graham, who transforms into Lady Audley, all while hiding a scandalous secret from her husband and his family. With a gripping mix of madness, bigamy, attempted murder, and seduction, this sensational narrative remains one of the quintessential examples of 19th-century fiction, sure to keep you spellbound from beginning to end. (Summary written by gloriana).

In the world of Paul Dombey, business reigns supreme, and he yearns for a son who will carry on his legacy. Will his frail newborn son fulfill his ambitious dreams, or will the overshadowed daughter, Florence, who struggles with the limitations of her gender, find her own path? Join us as we explore the complexities of family, ambition, and societal expectations in this compelling tale. - Summary by Brad Filippone

Jason Weiser and Carissa Weiser tell stories from myths, legends, and folklore that have shaped cultures throughout history. Some, like the stories of Aladdin, King Arthur, and Hercules are stories you think you know, but with surprising origins. Others are stories you might not have heard, but really should. All the stories are sourced from world folklore, but retold for modern ears. These are stories of wizards, knights, Vikings, dragons, princesses, and kings from the time when the world beyond the map was a dangerous and wonderful place.

THE REMARKABLE TRUE STORY BEHIND THE BBC'S MISS AUSTEN: THE PERFECT GIFT FOR ANY JANE AUSTEN LOVER Readers LOVE Jane Austen at Home: 'A "tour de force" which should be in the reading list of anyone who has either read the books or watched the film adaptations.' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'This book is a...