House of Fiction: From Pemberley to Brideshead, Great British Houses in Literature and Life

Phyllis Richardson explores how authors' personal experiences shaped the homes that became icons of English literature in her book "House of Fiction." She examines how authors' personal experiences shaped the homes that became icons of English literature in her book "House of Fiction," using historical sources, biographies, letters, diaries, and the novels themselves.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 480 pages
\n Publication date: 04 April 2019
\n Publisher: Unbound
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Phyllis Richardson takes us on a captivating journey through the realms of architecture, both real and imagined, to explore how the personal experiences of authors have intricately shaped the iconic homes that have become synonymous with English literature. From the gothic fantasies of Walpoles Otranto to the post-modern reinterpretations by Kazuo Ishiguro and Ian McEwan, Richardson guides us through a series of buildings, both historical and fictional, to unravel the profound influence of authors' lives on the dwellings that have left an indelible mark on the literary world.

In our exploration, we encounter a delightful scene where Jane Austen indulges in a generous pour of wine within the grand ballroom of a Hampshire manor, evoking the essence of her literary creations. We also discover the tangible influence of Virginia Woolf's love for Talland House at St Ives on her masterpiece, To the Lighthouse, where the serene beauty of the coastal landscape finds its reflection in the pages of the novel. Moreover, we are privy to Evelyn Waugh's nostalgic recollections of Madresfield Court as he meticulously plots Charles Ryder's return to Brideshead, adding a touch of personal nostalgia to the narrative.

Richardson's meticulous research, encompassing historical sources, biographies, letters, diaries, and the novels themselves, serves as the foundation for this captivating exploration. Through her insightful analysis, House of Fiction unveils the hidden stories behind these celebrated houses, offering candid glimpses into the lives of the authors who breathed life into them.

As we delve deeper into this architectural odyssey, we are transported to the very heart of the literary world, where the physical structures become the backdrop for the profound narratives that have captured the imaginations of readers for generations. Richardson's book serves as a gateway to these revered homes, providing a unique perspective on the creative process and the enduring legacy of English literature.

\n Weight: 446g\n
Dimension: 196 x 120 x 35 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781783526932\n \n