Maria Edgeworth and Abolition: Critiquing Character

This Palgrave Pivot examines Maria Edgeworth's representations of slavery and abolition, using satiric technique and intertextual allusion to represent discourses of slavery and abolition as a litmus test of character. It also offers new readings of canonical Edgeworth texts and an unprecedented deep-dive into her engagement with discourses of slavery and abolition.

Format: Hardback
Length: 121 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This Palgrave Pivot delves into fresh interpretations of Maria Edgeworth's representations of slavery, unveiling how she skillfully employed satiric technique and intertextual allusion to portray discourses of slavery and abolition as a critical measure of character—a test that she warmly invites readers to apply to their own lives. Throughout her illustrious career, Edgeworth consistently exposed the hypocritical and exaggerated appropriation of the sentimental rhetoric that dominated the slavery debate.

This comprehensive book presents new readings of canonical Edgeworth texts, as well as of largely overlooked works such as "Whim for Whim," "The Good Aunt," "Belinda," "The Grateful Negro," "The Two Guardians," and "Harry and Lucy Continued." Furthermore, it offers an in-depth exploration of an important engagement by a prominent Romantic Era woman writer with discourses of slavery and abolition.

Through meticulous analysis and thoughtful interpretation, this Pivot sheds light on Edgeworth's nuanced portrayal of slavery, exploring how she critiqued the moral and ethical implications of the institution while also examining the complex relationships between individuals and their enslaved counterparts. It further explores the broader societal and cultural contexts in which Edgeworth's works were produced, highlighting the ways in which she engaged with the broader debates surrounding slavery and abolition in her time.

By offering a fresh perspective on Maria Edgeworth's representations of slavery, this Palgrave Pivot contributes to our understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of the Romantic Era, as well as the enduring impact of her writings on the study of literature and society.

Weight: 313g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031120770
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022