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The World of Romance being Contributions to The Oxford and Cambridge Magazine, 1856   By: (1834-1896)

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In "The World of Romance: Contributions to The Oxford and Cambridge Magazine, 1856" William Morris transports readers to a captivating realm of adventure, chivalry, and enchantment. In this collection of his early writings, Morris exhibits a prodigious imagination and a profound understanding of medieval literature, offering a delightful escapade for any lover of classic tales.

Structured as a series of stories, essays, and poems, "The World of Romance" takes its readers on a journey through various realms filled with knights, damsels, and mythical creatures. Each contribution showcases Morris's remarkable talent for crafting vivid narrative landscapes and painting a rich tapestry of emotions. His masterful storytelling effortlessly immerses readers in a world where honor, allegiances, and love often clash, forging a cherished connection between the past and the present.

Morris's writings in this collection display a remarkable depth and breadth of knowledge about the medieval period. His detailed descriptions of castles, forests, and battles evoke a strong sense of time and place, effectively transporting readers to an era long gone. Moreover, his portrayal of characters demonstrates a thorough understanding of their motivations and desires, breathing life into even the most mythical figures.

While the book primarily focuses on romantic themes, Morris adds layers of social commentary and philosophical reflections that elevate it beyond a mere collection of stories. Through his narratives, he explores ideas of love, loyalty, societal constraints, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. These introspective moments provide readers with tantalizing food for thought, making "The World of Romance" a truly immersive and thought-provoking reading experience.

Additionally, the literary craftsmanship on display throughout the collection reinforces Morris's reputation as a great wordsmith. His elegant prose flows effortlessly, complemented by his skillful use of poetic elements. From melodic ballads to captivating dialogues, each piece is a testament to Morris's keen sense of rhythm and evocative language. His attention to detail, both in language and description, enhances the immersion and envelops readers in the enchantment of the world he has created.

It is worth mentioning that "The World of Romance" is a significant milestone in Morris's literary journey. This early work showcases the seeds of themes and ideas that would later flourish in his iconic contributions to the broader Arts and Crafts movement. While the style may appear less polished compared to his later works, the collection offers a glimpse into Morris's creative evolution and the foundations he built his legendary career upon.

In conclusion, "The World of Romance: Contributions to The Oxford and Cambridge Magazine, 1856" by William Morris breathes new life into the old tales of knights and damsels through its enchanting narratives and profound insights. Whether you are a fan of medieval literature, poetic prose, or simply an admirer of Morris's later works, this collection promises an enthralling journey through a patchwork of chivalry, adventure, and timeless romance.

First Page:

THE WORLD OF ROMANCE

BEING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE OXFORD AND CAMBRIDGE MAGAZINE, 1856

By WILLIAM MORRIS

LONDON: Published by J. THOMSON at 10, CRAVEN GARDENS, WIMBLEDON, S. W. MCMVI

In the tales . . . the world is one of pure romance. Mediaeval customs, mediaeval buildings, the mediaeval Catholic religion, the general social framework of the thirteenth or fourteenth century, are assumed throughout, but it would be idle to attempt to place them in any known age or country. . . Their author in later years thought, or seemed to think, lightly of them, calling them crude (as they are) and very young (as they are). But they are nevertheless comparable in quality to Keats's 'Endymion' as rich in imagination, as irregularly gorgeous in language, as full in every vein and fibre of the sweet juices and ferment of the spring . J. W. MACKAIL

In his last year at Oxford, Morris established, assuming the entire financial responsibility, the 'Oxford and Cambridge Magazine,' written almost entirely by himself and his college friends, but also numbering Rossetti among its contributors. Like most college ventures, its career was short, ending with its twelfth issue in December, 1856. In this magazine Morris first found his strength as a writer, and though his subsequent literary achievements made him indifferent to this earlier work, its virility and wealth of romantic imagination justify its rescue from oblivion... Continue reading book >>




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