The Rise Of Historical Criticism (eBook)

Oscar Wilde, born Oscar Fingal O'Flahertie Wills Wilde on October 16, 1854, in Dublin, Ireland, was a luminary of the aesthetic movement known for his wit, flamboyant style, and brilliant conversational skills. Apart from his well-celebrated plays, Wilde was an accomplished author who delved into various forms of writing, including essays, fiction, and poetry. His essay 'The Rise of Historical Criticism,' which showcases his intellectual depth, explores the evolution and significance of historical criticism, reflecting his belief in the importance of contextual understanding of art and literature. Wilde's literary style, characterized by its sharp wit and satirical edge, is best exemplified in his plays, such as 'The Importance of Being Earnest' and 'An Ideal Husband,' where he dissects social pretenses and the superficiality of the upper classes. His only novel, 'The Picture of Dorian Gray,' remains a classic, confronting themes of aestheticism, moral duplicity, and the pursuit of beauty. This work, along with his fairy tales and short stories, contributed richly to English literature and continue to be studied for their language, complex characters, and exploration of Victorian society. Wilde's tragic downfall, following his imprisonment for gross indecency, and his subsequent exile in France, mark a poignant end to his prolific career, but his literary legacy endures as a testament to his genius.