Books and Characters, French & English

"Books and Characters, French & English" by Lytton Strachey is a collection of essays and literary critiques that reflects the author's sharp wit and keen insight, written in the early 20th century. The book explores the contrasting perceptions of notable figures in French and English literature, highlighting the disparities in critical reception and cultural appreciation, particularly focusing on playwrights such as Racine and Shakespeare. Strachey aims to address the complexities and judgments that accompany literary criticism while safeguarding the dignity of these significant works. The opening of the book delves into a comparative analysis of Racine and Shakespeare, discussing the historical and cultural contexts that affect their respective receptions in France and England. Strachey introduces Mr. John Bailey's critique of Racine, positioning it against the praise from French critics like M. Lemaître, showcasing how national tastes shape the understanding of literary greatness. He outlines the differences in literary traditions and their impact on how characters and styles are perceived. By addressing these themes from the outset, Strachey sets the stage for a more profound exploration of literary styles and their significance, illustrating the intricacies involved in appreciating poetry and drama across cultures. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Giles Lytton Strachey was an English writer and critic. A founding member of the Bloomsbury Group and author of Eminent Victorians, he established a new form of biography in which psychological insight and sympathy are combined with irreverence and wit. His biography Queen Victoria (1921) was awarded the James Tait Black Memorial Prize.