Henry James

A wonderful reference for the learned James scholar, as well as the newly-intrigued literary student.

The second volume in The Complete Letters of Henry James: 1888–1891 contains 131 letters, of which 80 are published for the first time, written from April 23, 1890, to January 3, 1891. These letters continue to mark Henry James’s ongoing efforts to care for his chronically ill sister, develop his work, strengthen his professional status, and build friendships. They also trace James’s efforts to write for the theater up to the afternoon before the first performance of The American.

The Cambridge Edition of the Complete Fiction of Henry James provides, for the first time, a scholarly edition of a major writer whose work continues to be read, quoted, adapted and studied. Published in two volumes in 1880, Washington Square dramatises the plight of Catherine Sloper, a rich heiress, whose father, a successful doctor, identifies her one suitor, Morris Townsend, as a fortune-hunter. The novel thus draws on the sentimental tradition, which it develops with subtle, sympathetic irony, in a realist direction. This edition is the first to provide a full account of the context in which the book was composed and received, and to include the original illustrations by Punch-cartoonist George Du Maurier. Extensive explanatory notes enable modern readers to understand its nuanced historical, cultural and literary references, and its complex textual history.

The Cambridge Edition of the Complete Fiction of Henry James provides, for the first time, a scholarly edition of a major writer whose work continues to be read, quoted, adapted and studied. One of Henry James's last three great novels, The Ambassadors offers a witty, observant and profound exploration of the contrast between American and European cultures and of the desire to 'live all you can'. It follows the journey of self-discovery taken by a middle-aged literary gentleman, Lambert Strether, as he sheds his New England perspective and comes to appreciate cosmopolitan society and values, although not without personal cost. This edition, based on the work's first book appearance (Methuen, 1903), illuminates its literary and cultural contexts, contains comprehensive annotation, and provides a detailed textual history. It will appeal to James scholars, book historians and students of early twentieth-century Anglo-American literature and culture, and re-introduce readers to this masterpiece.

Step into the heart of 19th-century New York with "Washington Square," a timeless masterpiece by Henry James, now beautifully restored and republished by Alpha Editions. Once out of print for decades, this captivating novel returns as a collector's item and cultural treasure, ready to enchant today's and future generations. At the core of this poignant tale is Catherine Sloper, a young woman caught in a web of familial duty and romantic intrigue. Her journey of self-discovery and resilience against societal expectations is as relevant today as it was over a century ago. James's exquisite prose and keen psychological insight make this novel a unique exploration of love, betrayal, and the quest for identity. Whether you're a casual reader or a classic literature aficionado, "Washington Square" offers an emotionally engaging experience that will linger long after the final page. Don't miss the chance to own this meticulously restored edition, a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Rediscover a world where every choice is a turning point, and every character a reflection of timeless human struggles.

"Perhaps the only novel in which a man has successfully invaded the feminine field and produced a work comparable to Jane Austen's.” Graham GreeneHenry James’ Washington Square is a classic tale of love, betrayal and stifling societal pressures, set in the heart of nineteenth-century New York. It has become one of his best-loved and most widely admired novels, inspiring writers, artists and playwrights for nearly 150 years.This brand-new edition, published as a beautiful gift hardback, is also introduced by Colm Toibin, who is an expert in the life and works of Henry James and has re-examined the novel in light of the author’s connections to its New York setting. Toibin’s own bestselling novel about Henry James, The Master, was published in 2004, and is a powerful tribute to this author written from a novelist’s point of view.

This first volume in The Complete Letters of Henry James, 1888–1891 contains 171 letters, of which 119 are published for the first time, written from late November 1888 to April 20, 1890. These letters continue to mark Henry James’s ongoing efforts to care for his sister, develop his work, strengthen his professional status, build friendships, engage with timely political and economic issues, and maximize his income, which included hiring an agent. James details his work on The Tragic Muse, “Mrs. Temperly,” “An Animated Conversation,” “The Solution,” and other fiction. This volume opens with James in France and concludes with James on the Continent. Dee MacCormack introduces the volume, paying close attention to James’s increasing interest in the theater.

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One of Henry James's most engaging and emotionally affecting novels, Washington Square tells the story of Catherine Sloper, a plain and unassuming young woman living with her wealthy father, Dr. Austin Sloper, in New York City in the 1840s. She meets and falls in love with Morris Townsend, a charming but penniless suitor. Her father strongly disapproves of the match, believing Morris to be a fortune hunter only interested in Catherine's inheritance. Catherine resists her father, and a battle of will ensues, which James describes with brilliant wit, satiric skill, and psychological insight. Washington Square is a profound and deeply moving novel about romantic love, family duty, and a young woman's painful journey to self-realization. This Warbler Classics edition includes a new introduction and notes by William E. Cain as well as a detailed biographical timeline and suggestions for further reading.