Showing results for "William Morris" in Literature & Fiction

News from Nowhere (1890) is the best-known prose work of William Morris. The novel describes the encounter between a visitor from the 19th century, William Guest, and a decentralized and humane socialist future. Set over a century after a revolutionary upheaval in 1952, these 'Chapters from a Utopian Romance' recount his journey across London and up the Thames to Kelmscott Manor, Morris's own country house in Oxfordshire.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of William Morris, a celebrated writer, illustrator, and medievalist from the Romantic era, whose works resonate with the spirit of ancient Germanic and Norse cultures. House of the Wolfings (1890) is not just a tale of adventure; it’s a profound exploration of socialism, depicting a clan-based society that elects its leaders and engages in communal decision-making. Follow Thiodolf and the Wolfings as they bravely fend off Roman invaders, blending historical insight with mythical elements. Armed with a magical dwarfish coat of mail bestowed upon him ...

Dive into the enchanting world of Old French Romances, a captivating collection of four medieval tales translated by William Morris and published in 1896. Experience the extraordinary journey of Coustans, an abandoned child who rises to become the Byzantine Emperor in The Tale of King Coustans the Emperor. Relish the heartwarming adventures of Amis and Amile, a pair of look-alikes bound by lifelong friendship in The Friendship of Amis and Amile. Discover the intertwined fates of Florus, who longs for an heir, and Jehane, who seeks redemption, in The Tale of King Florus and the Fair Jehane. ...

"The Wood Beyond the World" is perhaps the first modern fantasy novel to unite an imaginary world with the element of the supernatural and is thus the precursor of much of present-day fantasy literature. The protagonist, (Golden Walter), gets married when he is a young man. His wife betrays him with another, so in his sorrow and to avoid a feud with her family, he sets off to sea.

William Morris Meredith Jr. (January 9, 1919-May 30, 2007), born in New York City, was an American poet and educator. He was Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress from 1978 to 1980, and the recipient of the 1988 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. In the following recordings Mederdith reads his poems "The Wreck of the Thresher," "Parents From The Cheer," "The Illiterate," and "Crossing Over."

Discover the gripping tale of Roots of the Mountains, the second installment in a planned trilogy of historical novels set in a captivating pre-medieval Germanic world. Following the themes from House of the Wolfings, published in the same year, this novel delves into the lives of a peaceful alliance of Dalesmen, Woodlanders, and Shepherds in the serene Burgdale valley. Their tranquil existence is shattered by the ruthless Sons of the Wolf and the invading Dusky Men. Through this narrative, Morris intricately weaves a commentary on the social and economic structures of his imagined world, ...

In A Dream of John Ball, journey back to the year 1381 during the tumultuous Peasants Revolt, where the visionary John Ball rallies an army of peasants ready to march on London. William Morris masterfully captures the essence of medieval England, a time when the common folk began to recognize their own value and dared to envision a brighter future beyond the constraints of the ruling class. Experience the fervor of a spirited rally, complete with an inspiring speech from John Ball, followed by a gripping battle where the legendary English longbow and clothyard shaft secure victory for the ...

The Wood Beyond the World is a captivating fantasy novel by William Morris, often hailed as one of the first modern fantasy writers to weave an imaginary realm with supernatural elements, paving the way for contemporary fantasy literature. While his use of archaic language may pose a challenge for some modern readers, it enriches the narrative with a unique atmosphere. Morris viewed his fantasies as a revival of medieval chivalrous romances, leading to intricate plots filled with interconnected adventures. In this tale, Walter embarks on a quest, leaving behind his unfaithful wife and father ...

In a captivating tale that laid the groundwork for modern high fantasy, Hallblithe, a brave warrior of the House of Raven, embarks on a daring quest to rescue his kidnapped troth-plight maiden, the Hostage. Captured himself, he finds unlikely companionship with the giant Puny Fox as they set sail for the Isle of Ransom. Their journey leads them to the enchanting Land of the Glittering Plain, where Hallblithe must choose between the seductive offer of eternal youth and the hand of the Kings daughter or the unwavering pursuit of his beloved. Originally published in 1890 in the English ...

Step into the enchanting world of Oakenrealm, a lush forest kingdom where adventurous squirrels traverse the treetops with ease. In this captivating prose romance, Christopher embarks on a quest to win the heart of the beautiful Queen Goldilind. Along the way, he uncovers his true identity and reclaims his rightful place in the realm. This tale weaves together themes of valor and love, as William Morris brilliantly reinterprets the medieval lay of Havelock the Dane. Originally published by Morriss Kelmscott Press and later reprinted in the 1970s as part of the esteemed Newcastle Forgotten ...

William Morris was born in Walthamstow, London, on 24 March 1834 and is regarded today as a foremost poet, writer, textile designer, artist and libertarian. Morris began to publish poetry and short stories in 1856. Morris' fascination with the ancient Germanic and Norse peoples dominated his writing, and he was the first to translate many of the Icelandic sagas into English. He also published limited-edition illuminated style books, with his design for The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer standing out.

Welcome to Volume VIII of the National Academy of Sciences Biographical Memoirs series. Journey with us through 33 sections, each dedicated to an integral aspect of the life of John Wesley Powell (1834-1902). Powell was a pioneering figure in the geological explorations of the West, and the driving force behind the establishment of the U.S. Geological Survey in 1879. A strong advocate for Native American tribes and culture, Powell led the Bureau of Ethnology with a passionate spirit. He penned a comprehensive study of the western U.S., championing careful irrigation and land conservation. His ...

Although William Morris is known primarily as a designer, he was also a writer of poetry and prose. The novel News from Nowhere (subtitled An Epoch of Rest Being Some Chapters from a Utopian Romance) is his best-known prose work and describes a humane socialist future as experienced by William Guest, who is transplanted there from the 19th century. Set in London and Oxfordshire, the novel takes place in 2090, over a century after a revolutionary upheaval. It remains a distinctive literary contribution to the concept of the utopian ideal.

When the wife of Golden Walter betrays him for another man, he leaves home on a trading voyage to avoid the necessity of a feud with her family. However, his efforts are fruitless, as word comes to him en route that his wife's clan has killed his father. As a storm then carries him to a faraway country, the effect of this news is merely to sunder his last ties to his homeland. Walter comes to the castle of an enchantress, from which he rescues a captive maiden in a harrowing adventure (or rather, she rescues him).

Sir Michael Morpurgo retells 10 of Shakespeare’s best-loved plays in this stunning audio collection in association with the RSC, featuring readings by members of the Royal Shakespeare Company and Michael himself. This collection includes Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, Hamlet, King Lear, Henry V, Twelfth Night, Taming of the Shrew, The Winter’s Tale and The Tempest.

With contributions by: William Boyd, Candice Carty-Williams, Imtiaz Dharker, Roddy Doyle, Pico Iyer, Robert Macfarlane, Andy Miller, Jackie Morris, Jan Morris, Sisonke Msimang, Dina Nayeri, Chigozie Obioma, Michael Ondaatje, David Pilling, Max Porter, Philip Pullman, Alice Pung, Jancis Robinson...

The Well at the World's End: Book 4 – The Road Home brings Ralph of Upmeads' epic quest to a close. After seeking the legendary well with its magical waters, he faces one final journey filled with challenges, wisdom, and the question of what home truly means. A must-listen for fans of fantasy and medieval adventures.

The Well at the World's End: Book 2 – The Road Unto Trouble continues Ralph of Upmeads' epic journey in search of the legendary well that grants eternal youth. Along the way, he encounters treacherous foes, unexpected allies, and perilous landscapes that test his courage and resolve. With thrilling battles, mysterious encounters, and deep lore, this installment is a must-listen for fans of classic fantasy adventures.

The Well at the World's End: Book 1 – The Road Unto Love introduces Ralph of Upmeads, a young prince who defies his father’s wishes to embark on an adventure. Driven by tales of a mystical well with life-giving waters, Ralph sets out on a journey filled with danger, romance, and wonder. This foundational fantasy novel has influenced greats like Tolkien and Lewis—an essential listen for fantasy lovers.

The Well at the World's End: Book 3 – The Road to The Well at the World's End continues Ralph of Upmeads’ daring quest for the mystical well that grants eternal youth. Along his journey, he encounters both friends and foes, testing his resolve and courage. This installment is filled with magic, peril, and adventure, leading ever closer to his ultimate goal.