Critical Essays on Arthur Morrison and the East End

A Child of the Jago, a slum novel by Arthur Morrison, sparked a contentious public debate about realism and the responsibilities of the novelist. This book evaluates Morrison's contributions to late-Victorian culture, including discourses on English working-class life, Victorian criminality, child welfare, disability, housing, professionalism, and slum photography. It features 11 chapters by scholars of the East End employing various critical methodologies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 258 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Arthur Morrison, a renowned author in 1896, gained fame for his gritty and harrowing portrayal of the struggles of the impoverished in A Child of the Jago, a slum novel set in London's underworld. However, when a reviewer accused Morrison of exaggerating the depravity of the neighborhood on which the Jago was based, a heated public debate ensued about the purpose of realism and the responsibilities of the novelist. In response, Morrison defended himself and his broader body of work, showcasing not only his artistic prowess but also his keen awareness of social issues.

This book, serving as the first comprehensive collection of critical essays on Arthur Morrison and the East End, delves into his significant contributions to late-Victorian culture. It examines various discourses surrounding English working-class life, including Victorian criminality, child welfare, disability, housing, professionalism, and slum photography. By placing Morrison within the context of these societal concerns, the chapters provide a comprehensive evaluation of his works.

Furthermore, the book reexamines Morrison's writings in light of the insights of notable figures such as Sir Walter Besant, Clementina Black, Charles Booth, Charles Dickens, George Gissing, and Margaret Harkness. These critical perspectives enrich our understanding of Morrison's literary oeuvre and shed light on his interactions with other writers and thinkers of his time.

The volume features an introduction by a renowned scholar, followed by 11 chapters authored by both established and emerging experts in the field of East End studies. These scholars employ a diverse range of critical methodologies, drawing upon their expertise in literature, history, art history, sociology, and geography. Their insights and interpretations offer a fresh and nuanced perspective on Morrison's work, contributing to our understanding of his legacy as a pioneering novelist of poverty and urban life.

In conclusion, Critical Essays on Arthur Morrison and the East End is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of literature and social history. It provides a comprehensive examination of Morrison's life and work, exploring his contributions to late-Victorian culture and his engagement with social issues. Through the critical lenses of esteemed scholars, this book offers new insights into Morrison's literary genius and his enduring impact on the world of literature.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032276762