Imogen: A Pastoral Romance

"Imogen: A Pastoral Romance" by William Godwin is a novel likely written in the early 19th century. This work presents themes of love and virtue, centering around the characters Imogen and Edwin, two innocent lovers navigating a story set against a backdrop of pastoral beauty and adversity. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to the idyllic valley of Clwyd, where the simplicity of rural life fosters a sense of tranquility among its inhabitants. Edwin, a handsome and gentle shepherd, has a deep-rooted affection for Imogen, a pure-hearted shepherdess. Their bond, dating back to childhood, grows as they experience the frivolities and trials of youth. However, as the narrative unfolds, Edwin and Imogen find themselves in the midst of supernatural occurrences with the intrusion of dark forces, notably the nefarious Roderic, who seeks to claim Imogen for himself. This initial portion establishes both the charm of pastoral life and the impending tensions that foreshadow conflict and adventure, setting the stage for the lovers’ trials ahead. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Godwin was an English journalist, political philosopher and novelist. He is considered one of the first exponents of utilitarianism and the first modern proponent of anarchism. Godwin is most famous for two books that he published within the space of a year: An Enquiry Concerning Political Justice, an attack on political institutions, and Things as They Are; or, The Adventures of Caleb Williams, an early mystery novel which attacks aristocratic privilege. Based on the success of both, Godwin featured prominently in the radical circles of London in the 1790s. He wrote prolifically in the genres of novels, history and demography throughout his life.