Plagiarizing the Victorian Novel: Imitation, Parody, Aftertext

In Victorian Britain, authors tested the limits of literary ownership by generating plagiaristic publications based on leading writers of the day. Adam Abraham's study examines imitations of Charles Dickens, Edward Bulwer Lytton, and George Eliot, revealing the essence of their sources and expanding our sense of literary knowledge.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 299 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2021
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Intellectual property has been a contentious issue for centuries, particularly in the digital age of online piracy. In Victorian Britain, authors pushed the boundaries of literary ownership by creating plagiaristic publications based on popular writers of the time. Adam Abraham's insightful study examines the imitations of three novelists: Charles Dickens, Edward Bulwer Lytton, and George Eliot. Through his examination, Abraham sheds light on these complex issues and expands our understanding of literary knowledge.

One notable example is Oliver Twiss, a penny serial that appropriated Dickens's characters. While the caricature in Oliver Twiss may be crude, it effectively captures the essence of Dickens's work. By studying these imitative publications, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the authors they admire, as they recognize the sometimes bad imitations that inspired their creations.

The line between imitation and parody can be blurred, as both involve borrowing elements from other sources. However, there are distinct differences. Imitation seeks to replicate the style, tone, and structure of a source, while parody takes a satirical or ironic approach to commenting on or subverting the original work. Copyright infringement, on the other hand, occurs when someone uses copyrighted material without permission, often for commercial gain.

It is important to note that the issue of intellectual property is complex and multifaceted. While some argue that it is necessary to protect the rights of artists and authors, others argue that it can stifle creativity and limit the dissemination of ideas. As such, there is ongoing debate about the appropriate balance between intellectual property protection and artistic freedom.

In conclusion, Adam Abraham's study on the imitations of three nineteenth-century writers provides valuable insights into the complex issues of intellectual property, imitation, parody, and copyright infringement. By examining these works, readers gain a deeper understanding of the literary world and the influences that shape artistic creations. As we navigate the digital age, it is essential to consider the ethical implications of intellectual property and the importance of supporting artistic freedom.

Weight: 438g
Dimension: 152 x 228 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108717243