Hardy, Conrad and the Senses

This book explores the impressionist writings of Hardy and Conrad in the context of a shared attention to sight and sound, highlighting their relevance for modern readers. It re-frames their Victorian and Modernist labels to show how vivid and urgent their novels are.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 31 August 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

This captivating book delves into the rich and evocative impressionist writings of renowned authors Thomas Hardy and Joseph Conrad, exploring their shared fascination with the power of sight and sound. By examining thirteen of their most powerful works within the context of contemporary discussions in Victorian science, Hugh Epstein offers a fresh and insightful perspective. Through meticulous analysis, he challenges the traditional labels of Victorian and Modernist literature, revealing the timeless relevance and vibrant urgency of these novels for modern readers. Epstein's profound exploration of nature and the environment sheds light on the profound connections between humans and their surroundings, highlighting the enduring themes of love, loss, survival, and the complexities of human nature. This book is a testament to the enduring legacy of Hardy and Conrad, as well as their profound influence on the literary landscape. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of these influential authors and their remarkable works.

Introduction:
In the realm of literature, the works of Thomas Hardy and Joseph Conrad have left an indelible mark, their impressionist writings resonating with readers across generations. These two authors, known for their vivid descriptions and attention to detail, captured the essence of the Victorian era and the complexities of human nature. This book aims to explore the rich tapestry of their literary contributions by examining thirteen of their most powerful works in the light of contemporary discussions in Victorian science. Through meticulous analysis, we will re-frame their Victorian and Modernist labels to reveal the timeless relevance and vibrant urgency of these novels for modern readers.
Shared Attention to Sight and Sound:
One of the defining characteristics of Hardy and Conrad's writing is their profound fascination with the power of sight and sound. They were masters of using sensory details to create vivid and immersive experiences for their readers, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the world of their characters. From the lush landscapes of Wessex to the bustling streets of London, Hardy and Conrad depicted the beauty and brutality of the natural world with a keen eye for detail. They also paid close attention to the sounds of the environment, from the rustling of leaves to the thunder of storms, adding depth and texture to their narratives.
Nature and the Environment:
Central to Hardy and Conrad's writing is their exploration of nature and the environment. They were deeply concerned with the impact of industrialization and urbanization on the natural world, and their novels often depicted the devastating effects of human activity on the environment. From the destruction of the countryside in Tess of the D'Urbervilles to the pollution of the Thames in The Waste Land, Hardy and Conrad portrayed the human-nature relationship as a complex and fragile equilibrium. Through their characters, they raised important questions about the responsibility of humans towards the environment and the consequences of our actions.
Hugh Epstein's Analysis:
In this book, Hugh Epstein takes us on a journey through thirteen of Hardy and Conrad's most powerful works, offering a fresh and insightful perspective. Epstein's analysis is grounded in his deep understanding of Victorian science and his ability to connect the dots between literature and science. He re-frames their Victorian and Modernist labels to show how vivid and urgent these novels are for the modern reader. By examining the scientific developments of the time, Epstein sheds light on the social and cultural contexts in which these works were written, providing a deeper appreciation of their significance.
Re-framing Victorian and Modernist Labels:
One of the most striking aspects of Epstein's analysis is his re-framing of Victorian and Modernist labels. He challenges the traditional categorization of these authors as belonging to a specific period or movement and instead presents them as timeless writers who continue to speak to the modern world. Epstein argues that Hardy and Conrad's works transcend the boundaries of time and place, addressing universal themes such as love, loss, survival, and the complexities of human nature. By re-examining these labels, Epstein invites us to see these authors as contemporary voices who offer valuable insights into the human experience.
The Modern Reader's Perspective:
For the modern reader, Hardy and Conrad's novels offer a unique and powerful experience. They provide a window into the past, allowing us to understand the social and cultural norms of the Victorian era. At the same time, their works are relevant and relatable to the contemporary world, addressing issues such as climate change, environmental degradation, and the challenges of human relationships. By reading these novels, we can gain a deeper understanding of our place in the world and the responsibilities we hold towards the environment and each other.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to deepen their understanding of Thomas Hardy and Joseph Conrad's literary contributions. By exploring their shared attention to sight and sound, nature and the environment, and the power of the modern reader, Hugh Epstein offers a fresh and insightful perspective on these influential authors. Through meticulous analysis and re-framing of Victorian and Modernist labels, he reveals the timeless labels to show how vivid and urgent these novels are for the modern reader. This book is a testament to the enduring legacy of Hardy and Conrad, as well as their profound influence on the literary landscape. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of these influential authors and their remarkable works.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 233 x 154 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474449878