William Warner's Syrinx: or, A Sevenfold History

William Warner's Syrinx is the first English novel, a realistic story of middle-class individuals, brought to life by Wallace A. Bacon's critical edition, with an extensive introduction providing context for its key role in the history of the novel and early modern literature.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2019
Publisher: Northwestern University Press

William Warner's Syrinx, or a Sevenfold History, is considered the first English novel. Unlike his contemporaries, Warner wrote a realistic novel that drew inspiration from adventure stories, Alexandrine romance, and focused on the lives of middle-class individuals rather than the aristocracy. Wallace A. Bacon's critical edition of Syrinx brings this important novel to life, preserving it for future generations and introducing it to new readers. Bacons critical apparatus, including an extensive introduction, provides valuable context for Warner's work, assessing its significant role in the history of the novel and early modern literature.

Warner's Syrinx is a captivating tale that follows the lives of young protagonists as they navigate through a series of adventures, tested by fortune and guided by auspicious gods. The novel's realism and attention to middle-class experiences set it apart from its contemporaries. Through his vivid storytelling, Warner explores themes of love, fate, and the consequences of one's actions.

Bacons critical edition of Syrinx is a testament to his dedication to preserving and promoting Warner's work. His extensive introduction provides valuable insights into the historical context of the novel, its influences, and its significance in the development of early modern literature. Bacons critical apparatus includes a comprehensive bibliography, detailed notes, and an index, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and readers alike.

In conclusion, William Warner's Syrinx, or a Sevenfold History, is a pioneering work that paved the way for the development of the English novel. Through its realistic portrayal of middle-class life and its exploration of themes of love, fate, and the human condition, the novel remains a timeless masterpiece. Wallace A. Bacon's critical edition of Syrinx is a significant contribution to the study of literature and provides new generations of readers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this important work.

Weight: 414g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780810138223