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Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek William Beckford

Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek By William Beckford

Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek by William Beckford


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Summary

William Beckford's Vathek is a touchstone of eighteenth-century Orientalism and of the Gothic novel. This Broadview edition, based on the 1823 edition - the last one edited by the author himself - introduces The Episodes in the order Beckford planned, and incorporates his final corrections.

Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek Summary

Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek by William Beckford

William Beckford's Vathek is a touchstone of eighteenth-century Orientalism and of the Gothic novel. Beckford's later work, The Episodes of Vathek, shares Vathek's irreverent and decadent style, and an edition that unites the two has long been overdue. The Broadview edition includes a newly discovered early version of the first episode, never before in print, that centres on male-male love, as well as the previously published version that was re-written by Beckford as a heterosexual narrative. Based on the 1823 edition-the last one edited by the author himself-the Broadview Edition also introduces The Episodes in the order Beckford planned, and incorporates his final corrections.

Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek Reviews

Sympathetic to Beckford's odd and yet unexpectedly typical position as a member of the ruling class with progressive attitudes and often rebellious tastes, Graham offers us the first true appreciation of Beckford as a literary innovator, oriental scholar, social visionary, and plain old curious character. The first volume to take Beckford in all his sardonic comedy truly seriously, Graham's Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek is certain to remain the standard edition of, and commentary on, Beckford for decades to come. - Kevin L. Cope, Louisiana State University

Kenneth W. Graham's introduction to William beckford's Vathek with The Episodes is simply packed with information, and includes one of the finest discussions of Oriental Tales I've encountered. With its careful editing, its appendices, maps, and bibliography, this new, expanded edition of Vathek is, all in all, superb. - Sydney Conger, Western Illinois University

About William Beckford

Kenneth W Graham teaches at the University of Guelph. He has written widely on eighteenth-century literature. His books include Gothic Fictions: Prohibition/Transgression, and Vathek and the Escape from Time: Bicentenary Revalutations.

Table of Contents

Dedication
Acknowledgements
Illustrations
William Thomas Beckford: A Brief Chronology

Introduction

  • Vathek united with The Episodes: thematic unity
    Vathek: Sensuality and Curiosity
    The History of the Princes and Friends Alasi and Firouz: rebellion and atrocity
    The History of Prince Barkiarokh: picaro meets apprentice
    The History of Princess Zulkai's and the Prince Kalilah: ambition and incest
    Conclusion: Beckford's Oriental Vision

Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek

Appendix A: The History of Prince Alasi and the Princess Firouzkah

Appendix B: Notes

  1. The Explanatory Footnotes and Beckford's Orientalism
  2. Notes on the Choice of Texts
  3. Emendation Notes

Appendix C: Geography and Maps

Works Cited/Recommended Reading

Additional information

CIN1551112817G
9781551112817
1551112817
Vathek with The Episodes of Vathek by William Beckford
Used - Good
Paperback
Broadview Press Ltd
2001-05-30
397
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us

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