Barford Abbey, a Novel: In a Series of Letters

Mrs. Gunning

Sep 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

In Mrs. Gunning's novel, 'Barford Abbey: In a Series of Letters', the author explores themes of love, betrayal, and social class within the context of a romantic epistolary narrative. Written in a lively and engaging style, the book provides readers with a nuanced portrayal of the complexities of relationships in 18th-century England. The use of letters as a literary device adds a sense of intimacy and immediacy to the story, drawing readers into the lives of the characters and their interconnected dramas. Mrs. Gunning's sharp wit and keen observation of human nature shine through in this captivating tale, making it a compelling read for fans of period fiction. As a talented novelist and playwright, Mrs. Gunning's own experiences in the literary world likely influenced her creation of 'Barford Abbey'. Her insight into the social mores and customs of the time adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of characters and settings. By drawing on her own life and surroundings, Mrs. Gunning brings a sense of realism and emotional depth to her novel, making it a timeless work of literature. I highly recommend 'Barford Abbey: In a Series of Letters' to readers who enjoy classic romance novels with a touch of social commentary. Mrs. Gunning's masterful storytelling and vivid characters make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the intricacies of human relationships and society.

About the author

Mrs. Gunning, whose Christian name was Susannah, was a noted English novelist who flourished during the latter half of the 18th century, within the Georgian era's literary circle. Although much of her personal life remains enshrouded in the mists of history, her contributions to the genre of epistolary novels are nonetheless significant. Mrs. Gunning's 'Barford Abbey, a Novel: In a Series of Letters', published circa 1768, cemented her position in the annals of literary history. This work, emblematic of the sentimental novel tradition, explores themes of morality, love, and social standing, and is illustrative of the 18th-century fascination with novels of sensibility written in letter form. The craftsmanship of Mrs. Gunning's literary style is distinguished by its carefully wrought prose and its depiction of contemporaneous manners and norms, capturing the essence of the elite's lives through vivid letters that form the narrative's backbone. Much like her contemporaries, Samuel Richardson and Frances Burney, Mrs. Gunning expertly dexterized the epistolary technique to comment on and critique the societal structures of her time. Although later eclipsed by the likes of Jane Austen, Mrs. Gunning's work is a noteworthy precursor to the Regency novel and serves as a valuable piece for scholars interested in the evolution of the novel and women's writing in the 18th century.