Oscar Wilde: Philosopher, Poet and Playwright

For once Wilde's biography is subordinated to consideration of the value of his work. This penetrating critical analysis is based on philosophical as well as literary points of view. It gives emphasis to the controlling ideas that inspire Wilde's work as well as his methods of composition. It reviews the manifestation of his ideas evident in his poetry, story writing, drama and socio-politico and philosophic thought.

Wilde's uniform methods of writing seemingly impose limitations on the reach of his work. But when, as happens, most notably in The Ballad of Reading Gaol, The Importance of Being Earnest, 'Pen, Pencil and Poison', and 'The Soul of Man under Socialism', he transcends those models and has something enduring to say.

About the author:

James Hodgson is general editor at Greenwich Exchange, the author of a number of technical books, a study of the work of the sculptor Malcolm Poynter and is currently engaged in writing about the mind-body problem in philosophy.

242  pages

ISBN: 978-1-910996-10-2