The Complete Short Stories (Oxford World’s Classics) by Oscar Wilde is a captivating collection that showcases the brilliance and versatility of Wilde’s shorter fiction. This edition, published by Oxford University Press, presents readers with an enchanting selection of memorable fairy-tales, witty comedies, and daring narrative experiments.
Within the pages of this collection, you will find some of Wilde’s best-loved stories, such as ‘The Happy Prince,’ ‘The Selfish Giant,’ and ‘Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime.’ These timeless tales continue to resonate with readers of all ages, exploring themes of compassion, sacrifice, and the complexities of human nature.
One of the outstanding pieces in this collection is the innovative ‘Portrait of Mr W. H.’ This narrative delves into the mystery surrounding the dedicatee of Shakespeare’s sonnets, offering a thought-provoking exploration of art, love, and identity. An Appendix in this edition also includes an important passage from the book-length version of ‘The Portrait of Mr W. H.’ This passage sheds light on the Neo-Platonic ideal of friendship between men, providing a key to understanding the deeper meaning of the story.
The Introduction to this edition serves as a valuable entry point into Wilde’s genius as a short-story writer. It highlights his originality and literary achievement, demonstrating his mastery of language and wit. The Introduction also explores the periodicals in which these stories were first published, giving insight into their intended readership and their enduring value in the literary world.
To further enhance the reading experience, this edition includes a useful and up-to-date bibliography, allowing readers to delve deeper into Wilde’s works. Additionally, extensive and helpful explanatory notes provide valuable context and explanations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the stories.
«The Complete Short Stories (Oxford World’s Classics)» by Oscar Wilde is a must-read for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Wilde’s shorter fiction. With its diverse range of stories and its profound exploration of human nature, this collection promises to captivate and engage readers from beginning to end. So, take a journey into the imaginative realm of Oscar Wilde, and discover the enduring brilliance of his short stories.