Oliver Goldsmith A Biography By: Washington Irving (1783-1859)
In "Oliver Goldsmith: A Biography" by Washington Irving, readers are immersed in the captivating life and times of the renowned 18th-century author and playwright, Oliver Goldsmith. Irving's exceptional storytelling effortlessly transports us back in time, allowing for an intimate exploration of the tumultuous yet extraordinary journey Goldsmith embarked upon. Right from the start, Irving's engaging and vivid narrative style draws readers in, breathing life into the pages of this meticulously crafted biography. Through extensive research and a deep understanding of Goldsmith's life, Irving unveils the myriad facets of this literary genius, offering a comprehensive and compelling account of his personal and professional triumphs and tragedies. One of the standout qualities of Irving's biography is the way he seamlessly intertwines historical context with Goldsmith's life, providing a rich tapestry that enhances our understanding of the period in which he lived. From London's literary circles to the vibrant streets of 18th-century Dublin, readers are transported to a world steeped in creativity, political turmoil, and social change. What truly makes this biography shine is Irving's ability to capture Goldsmith's complex personality. Through carefully selected anecdotes and quotations, he delves into Goldsmith's insecurities, his humor, and his insatiable curiosity, allowing readers to get a truly intimate sense of the man behind the words. We witness his struggles with finances, his quest for recognition, and his unwavering dedication to his art, ultimately rendering Goldsmith a relatable and endearing figure. Furthermore, Irving masterfully weaves together Goldsmith's personal and professional life, shedding light on the circumstances that shaped his literary output. From the creation of his masterpieces, such as "The Vicar of Wakefield" and "She Stoops to Conquer," to his turbulent relationships with fellow writers and his constant battle with self-doubt, this biography presents a well-rounded and authentic portrayal of Goldsmith. Although at times the narrative might feel a bit dense, particularly when delving into the political landscape of the era, Irving's meticulous attention to detail ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of Goldsmith's cultural and historical significance. Moreover, the inclusion of Goldsmith's own letters and writings adds depth and authenticity, allowing us to hear his voice firsthand. In conclusion, "Oliver Goldsmith: A Biography" is a captivating and comprehensive account of the life of a literary giant. Washington Irving's impeccable storytelling, attention to detail, and deep understanding of his subject make this biography an absolute must-read for anyone interested in the life and works of Oliver Goldsmith. First Page: E text prepared by Charles Aldarondo, Tiffany Vergon, William Craig, Charles Franks, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team OLIVER GOLDSMITH A Biography by Washington Irving PREFACE I. Birth and Parentage Characteristics of the Goldsmith Race Poetical Birthplace Goblin House Scenes of Boyhood Lissoy Picture of a Country Parson Goldsmith's Schoolmistress Byrne, the Village Schoolmaster Goldsmith's Hornpipe and Epigram Uncle Contarine School Studies and School Sports Mistakes of a Night II. Improvident Marriages in the Goldsmith Family Goldsmith at the University Situation of a Sizer Tyranny of Wilder, the Tutor Pecuniary Straits Street Ballads College Riot Gallows Walsh College Prize A Dance Interrupted III. Goldsmith rejected by the Bishop Second Sally to see the World Takes Passage for America Ship sails without him Return on Fiddleback A Hospitable Friend The Counselor IV. Sallies forth as a Law Student Stumbles at the Outset Cousin Jane and the Valentine A Family Oracle Sallies forth as a Student of Medicine Hocus pocus of a Boarding house Transformations of a Leg of Mutton The Mock Ghost Sketches of Scotland Trials of Toryism A Poet's Purse for a Continental Tour V. The agreeable Fellow passengers Risks from Friends picked up by the Wayside Sketches of Holland and the Dutch Shifts while a Poor Student at Leyden The Tulip Speculation The Provident Flute Sojourn at Paris Sketch of Voltaire Traveling Shifts of a Philosophic Vagabond VI... Continue reading book >>

Oliver Goldsmith A Biography By: Washington Irving (1783-1859)

In "Oliver Goldsmith: A Biography" by Washington Irving, readers are immersed in the captivating life and times of the renowned 18th-century author and playwright, Oliver Goldsmith. Irving's exceptional storytelling effortlessly transports us back in time, allowing for an intimate exploration of the tumultuous yet extraordinary journey Goldsmith embarked upon.

Right from the start, Irving's engaging and vivid narrative style draws readers in, breathing life into the pages of this meticulously crafted biography. Through extensive research and a deep understanding of Goldsmith's life, Irving unveils the myriad facets of this literary genius, offering a comprehensive and compelling account of his personal and professional triumphs and tragedies.

One of the standout qualities of Irving's biography is the way he seamlessly intertwines historical context with Goldsmith's life, providing a rich tapestry that enhances our understanding of the period in which he lived. From London's literary circles to the vibrant streets of 18th-century Dublin, readers are transported to a world steeped in creativity, political turmoil, and social change.

What truly makes this biography shine is Irving's ability to capture Goldsmith's complex personality. Through carefully selected anecdotes and quotations, he delves into Goldsmith's insecurities, his humor, and his insatiable curiosity, allowing readers to get a truly intimate sense of the man behind the words. We witness his struggles with finances, his quest for recognition, and his unwavering dedication to his art, ultimately rendering Goldsmith a relatable and endearing figure.

Furthermore, Irving masterfully weaves together Goldsmith's personal and professional life, shedding light on the circumstances that shaped his literary output. From the creation of his masterpieces, such as "The Vicar of Wakefield" and "She Stoops to Conquer," to his turbulent relationships with fellow writers and his constant battle with self-doubt, this biography presents a well-rounded and authentic portrayal of Goldsmith.

Although at times the narrative might feel a bit dense, particularly when delving into the political landscape of the era, Irving's meticulous attention to detail ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of Goldsmith's cultural and historical significance. Moreover, the inclusion of Goldsmith's own letters and writings adds depth and authenticity, allowing us to hear his voice firsthand.

In conclusion, "Oliver Goldsmith: A Biography" is a captivating and comprehensive account of the life of a literary giant. Washington Irving's impeccable storytelling, attention to detail, and deep understanding of his subject make this biography an absolute must-read for anyone interested in the life and works of Oliver Goldsmith.

First Page:

E text prepared by Charles Aldarondo, Tiffany Vergon, William Craig, Charles Franks, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team

OLIVER GOLDSMITH

A Biography

Washington Irving

PREFACE

I. Birth and Parentage Characteristics of the Goldsmith Race Poetical Birthplace Goblin House Scenes of Boyhood Lissoy Picture of a Country Parson Goldsmith's Schoolmistress Byrne, the Village Schoolmaster Goldsmith's Hornpipe and Epigram Uncle Contarine School Studies and School Sports Mistakes of a Night

II. Improvident Marriages in the Goldsmith Family Goldsmith at the University Situation of a Sizer Tyranny of Wilder, the Tutor Pecuniary Straits Street Ballads College Riot Gallows Walsh College Prize A Dance Interrupted

III. Goldsmith rejected by the Bishop Second Sally to see the World Takes Passage for America Ship sails without him Return on Fiddleback A Hospitable Friend The Counselor

IV. Sallies forth as a Law Student Stumbles at the Outset Cousin Jane and the Valentine A Family Oracle Sallies forth as a Student of Medicine Hocus pocus of a Boarding house Transformations of a Leg of Mutton The Mock Ghost Sketches of Scotland Trials of Toryism A Poet's Purse for a Continental Tour

V. The agreeable Fellow passengers Risks from Friends picked up by the Wayside Sketches of Holland and the Dutch Shifts while a Poor Student at Leyden The Tulip Speculation The Provident Flute Sojourn at Paris Sketch of Voltaire Traveling Shifts of a Philosophic Vagabond

VI... Continue reading book >>

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