Essays of Elia, and, Last Essays of Elia
By Charles Lamb
- Release Date: 2023-07-07
- Genre: Essays
Description
The Essays of Elia and Last Essays of Elia are two collections of essays written by the English writer Charles Lamb. Lamb, born in 1775, was a prominent figure in English literature and is best known for his essays and his collaboration with his sister Mary Lamb on the Tales from Shakespeare. The Essays of Elia, first published in 1823, is a collection of essays that originally appeared in The London Magazine between 1820 and 1823. Lamb wrote these essays under the pseudonym "Elia," which was an allusion to his first name. The essays cover a wide range of topics, including personal reflections, literary criticism, social commentary, and character sketches. Lamb's writing style is characterized by its wit, humor, and a conversational tone. The collection was well-received and helped establish Lamb as a prominent essayist of his time. Last Essays of Elia, published in 1833, is a continuation of Lamb's earlier collection. It includes a series of essays that Lamb wrote between 1823 and 1833. Similar to the first collection, these essays explore various themes and subjects, combining personal anecdotes with literary analysis and observations on society. However, the Last Essays of Elia has a somewhat more melancholic tone compared to its predecessor. This change in tone is partly attributed to the tragic circumstances in Lamb's life, including the death of his sister Mary in 1834. The essays in both collections showcase Lamb's keen observations of human nature and his ability to blend humor and pathos. His writing style is often characterized as romantic and nostalgic, with a fondness for the past and a celebration of the ordinary aspects of life. Lamb's essays have been praised for their warmth, charm, and accessibility, making them enduring pieces of English literature. The Essays of Elia and Last Essays of Elia collectively represent an important contribution to the genre of the English essay. They continue to be studied and enjoyed by readers for their insightful reflections on life, literature, and the human condition.
