About
Charles Reade (1814-1884) was a prolific English writer, known for his social-problem novels that exposed injustices. After studying at Oxford and a brief legal career, he turned to literature. His masterpiece, The Cloister and the Hearth (1861), is a historical novel praised by critics. He also excelled in drama, notably with Drink (1879), an adaptation of Zola's L'Assommoir. His novels, such as It Is Never Too Late to Mend (1856) on prison reform, and Hard Cash (1863) on private lunatic asylums, were based on meticulous research and newspaper clippings. His vivid style and engaging plots earned him great popularity.
Major works
- The Cloister and the Hearth (1861)historical novel
- It Is Never Too Late to Mend (1856)novel
- Hard Cash (1863)novel
- Foul Play (1868)novel
- Put Yourself in His Place (1870)novel
Key milestones
- 1843Called to the bar at Lincoln's Inn, but never practised law.
- 1847Earned a Doctor of Civil Law (D.C.L.) at Oxford.
- 1879Great stage success with Drink, an adaptation of Zola's L'Assommoir.
Themes
Social reformInjusticeDocumentary researchHistorical adventureTheatre
Sources: britannica.com · oxfordbibliographies.com