Clarissa (eBook)

Samuel Richardson (1689–1761) was an English writer and printer who is best known for his epistolary novels, including the renowned 'Clarissa, or, the History of a Young Lady' (1748). Born to a joiner in Derbyshire, Richardson did not receive a formal university education, instead, he was apprenticed to a printer in London. He flourished in the printing business, establishing himself as a prominent printer and eventually becoming the printer to the House of Commons. Richardson's foray into writing fiction came at the middle age of 50 when he published his first novel 'Pamela, or Virtue Rewarded' in 1740—a work that garnered acclaim and controversy for its innovative use of letters to tell the story, and portrayal of moral issues. 'Clarissa', the author's masterpiece, solidified his reputation as a key figure in the development of the English novel. Its in-depth exploration of a woman's struggle for autonomy and dignity in the face of societal and familial oppression showcased Richardson's ability to analyze the psychological depths of his characters, providing readers with intimate access to their inner lives. This literary style marked a departure from earlier narrative forms and contributed significantly to the rise of the novel as a serious art form in the 18th century. Richardson's literary technique has influenced many writers over the centuries, including notable figures such as Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.