The Elect Lady (eBook)

George MacDonald (1824-1905) was a pioneering figure in the field of fantasy literature and a mentor to fellow writer Lewis Carroll. His impact on the fantasy genre and the literary world is still felt today. MacDonald's work combined Christian allegory and mythopoeic elements, predating and influencing the high-fantasy epics of writers like J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. An ordained minister initially, MacDonald eventually focused on writing and lecturing. His works often conveyed spiritual and moral themes, echoing his profound religious convictions. MacDonald's novel 'The Elect Lady' showcases his adeptness at narrative craft and his commitment to integrating thoughtful spiritual dialogue within the context of a dramatic story. As an author, MacDonald's literary style often weaved complex characters and fantastical settings with deep theological and philosophical musings, employing a didactic approach without sacrificing the narrative's imaginative vitality. Throughout his widely varied oeuvre, which encompasses fairy tales, fantasies, poetry, and sermons, MacDonald left an indelible mark on Victorian literature. Among his most significant contributions are the classic works 'Phantastes' (1858), 'The Princess and the Goblin' (1872), and 'At the Back of the North Wind' (1871), which have garnered critical acclaim and remain influential to this day. MacDonald's legacy persists in the admiration of his peers and the continued study of his works in literary scholarship.