April London Livres

A clearly written account of the development of the novel over the course of the long eighteenth century.

The exploration of women's roles in the eighteenth-century property debate is central to this study, highlighting how contemporary novels presented diverse and often conflicting views on women's relationship to property. April London analyzes various authors, including Samuel Richardson and Clara Reeve, revealing interpretations that range from equating women with objects to nuanced discussions of possession for those lacking full civic status. This comprehensive examination underscores the significance of gender in the literary landscape of the period.

Focusing on the period between 1770 and 1820, the book explores how literary history writing differs from canon formation, highlighting its cultural significance. By examining various sources, including secret history, memoirs, and novels, it encourages a reevaluation of literary history's role within the print culture of the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. This investigation reveals the dynamic interplay between literary history and broader cultural contexts during this transformative era.