Richard Ellmann

Richard Ellmann (1918–1987) was a prominent American literary critic and biographer. He is best known for his acclaimed biographies of writers James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and William Butler Yeats. Ellmann's biography of Joyce, published in 1959, is considered a seminal work in the field of literary biography. His research was meticulous, and his narrative style combined scholarly rigor with engaging prose. Ellmann's contributions to the study of modernist literature have left a lasting impact on the field.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. James Joyce

    This book is a comprehensive biography of a renowned Irish writer, delving into his life, work, and the intricate relationship between the two. It provides a detailed account of the writer's personal life, including his upbringing in Dublin, his self-imposed exile from Ireland, and his personal relationships. The book also offers a thorough analysis of his major works and the profound influence they have had on 20th-century literature. The biography is meticulously researched, drawing on a wealth of primary sources, and is written in an engaging and accessible style.

  2. 2. Oscar Wilde

    This biography provides an in-depth look at the life of renowned playwright, poet, and novelist, Oscar Wilde. It covers his rise to fame, his relationships, his trial for homosexuality, and his time in prison. The book also delves into his works, philosophies, and the societal norms of his time. It presents a comprehensive and detailed account of Wilde's life, his wit, and his tragic downfall.