The Turn of the Screw (eBook)

Henry James (1843–1916) was an illustrious American writer known for his deep psychological insight, sophisticated narrative technique, and vivid exploration of the consciousness. Born in New York City to affluent and intellectually active parents, Henry was exposed to a remarkable international and cultural upbringing. He spent much of his life in Europe, particularly England, which influenced his work and ultimately led him to acquire British citizenship. James's oeuvre spans novels, short stories, plays, criticism, and travel writing, often characterized by his distinctive, intricate prose and well-crafted character development. One of his most renowned works is 'The Turn of the Screw' (1898), a complex Gothic novella that engages with themes of innocence, supernatural encounters, and the reliability of narration. The text has been lauded for its ambiguous content and has prompted varied critical interpretations, reflecting James's mastery of narrative subtlety. His literary style, known as 'Jamesian', epitomizes the narrative intricacy, with a focus on the interior lives and moral dilemmas facing his characters, often within the moral and societal constraints of the 19th-century. James's legacy in literature persists, with significant contributions to the modernist movement and the art of fiction. His writing continues to be studied and admired for its narrative depth and psychological detail.