Maria Edgeworth
Maria Edgeworth (1 January 1767 – 22 May 1849) was a prolific Anglo-Irish writer of adults' and children's literature. She was one of the earliest realist writers in children's literature and was a significant figure in the evolution of the novel in Europe. She held advanced views for a woman of her time, advocating for estate management, politics, education for women, and the idea that affection and education, rather than harsh discipline, were the key to raising well-rounded individuals. Her most famous work is the novel 'Castle Rackrent' (1800), which is a satire on Anglo-Irish landlords and is considered a precursor to the historical novel genre and the family saga.
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.
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1. Castle Rackrent
"Castle Rackrent" is a satirical novel that chronicles the declining fortunes and ultimate ruin of a once noble Irish family through the eyes of their loyal and long-serving steward. The family's successive heirs each contribute to the downfall through their reckless extravagance, drunkenness, gambling, and overall mismanagement. The narrative provides a critique of the Anglo-Irish landlords of the time, highlighting their exploitation of the Irish peasantry and their disregard for the responsibilities that came with their privileged position.
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2. Ennui
This novel explores the life of Lord Glenthorn, a wealthy but disenchanted Irish peer who suffers from profound boredom and a lack of purpose. After discovering that he is not the legitimate heir to his estate, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption. Through various trials and a quest for genuine human connection, the protagonist learns the value of hard work, the importance of his Irish heritage, and the power of love. Set against the backdrop of early 19th-century Ireland, the story delves into themes of identity, societal obligation, and the search for meaning in life.
