THE EXPEDITION OF HUMPHRY CLINKER by Tobias Smollett

by Tobias Smollett

Overview

"The Expedition of Humphry Clinker" by Tobias Smollett is an epistolary novel that takes readers on a hilarious journey across 18th-century Britain. First published in 1771, the book is a satirical masterpiece that showcases the absurdities of the society of the time.

The story is narrated through a series of letters written by various members of the family of Matthew Bramble, a wealthy landowner from Wales. The letters are written to their friends and family members and cover a wide range of topics, including politics, religion, social issues, and personal relationships. The letters are written in a variety of styles, reflecting the personalities and perspectives of the different characters.

The family sets out on a journey across England and Scotland, with the aim of improving their health and seeing the sights. Along the way, they encounter a cast of eccentric characters, including a delusional poet, a hypocritical clergyman, a fortune-hunting widow, and a highwayman. Each encounter is an opportunity for Smollett to satirize the flaws and foibles of his contemporaries.

One of the standout characters in the novel is Humphry Clinker, a servant in Bramble's household. Clinker is a loyal and hardworking character, who is the subject of much speculation and gossip due to his mysterious past. As the novel progresses, the reader learns more about Clinker's history and his true character.

The novel is notable for its vivid descriptions of the landscape and scenery of England and Scotland. Smollett's prose is rich and evocative, and he has a keen eye for detail. The novel also deals with a number of serious issues, including poverty, class inequality, and the oppression of women. However, Smollett's satire is always lighthearted, and he never loses his sense of humor.

"The Expedition of Humphry Clinker" is a classic of 18th-century literature, and a must-read for anyone interested in the history of English literature. Smollett's wit and humor have ensured that the novel has stood the test of time, and it remains a delightfully entertaining read today.

Product Details

BN ID:	2940161035245
Publisher:	Paul Calamusa
Publication date:	04/09/2023
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	486 KB

About the Author

Tobias Smollett (1721-1771) was a Scottish writer, best known for his contributions to the 18th-century novel. Born in Renton, Scotland, he studied medicine at the University of Glasgow before moving to London to pursue a career as a writer.

Smollett's first published work was a translation of Voltaire's "Henriade", but he soon turned to writing original works of fiction. His first novel, "The Adventures of Roderick Random", was published in 1748, and was followed by "The Adventures of Peregrine Pickle" (1751) and "The Adventures of Ferdinand Count Fathom" (1753).

However, Smollett is perhaps best remembered for "The Expedition of Humphry Clinker" (1771), his final novel, which is considered a masterpiece of 18th-century literature. The novel's epistolary form, its satire and humor, and its vivid descriptions of England and Scotland have ensured its enduring popularity.

In addition to his work as a novelist, Smollett was also a journalist and historian. He worked as an editor for several newspapers and periodicals, and wrote a history of England that was published in 1760. He was also involved in politics, and was a supporter of the Whig party.

Smollett's life was marked by personal tragedy, including the death of his wife and several children. He also suffered from poor health throughout his life, and died at the age of 50. Despite these hardships, however, he left behind a legacy of influential and enduring works of literature, and is remembered as one of the great writers of the 18th century.