The Woman in White (Vintage 1970 Illustrated Hardcover)

Description

“The Woman in White” is a novel written by Wilkie Collins, first published in 1859. It is considered one of the earliest mystery novels and a classic of Victorian literature. The novel is known for its intricate plot, suspenseful narrative, and well-drawn characters.

The story is narrated by multiple characters and revolves around the mysterious circumstances involving a woman dressed in white, who escapes from an insane asylum and encounters various characters, including drawing master Walter Hartright. As the narrative unfolds, it reveals a complex web of secrets, deceit, and intrigue involving the wealthy Fairlie family.

The central mystery involves the identity of the woman in white, who seems to be connected to the Fairlies and their estate. The plot explores themes such as identity, deception, and the constraints placed on women in Victorian society.

Wilkie Collins employs a narrative structure that was innovative for its time, using multiple narrators to tell the story from different perspectives. This adds layers to the mystery and allows the reader to piece together the puzzle as the narrative progresses.

“The Woman in White” is recognized for its contribution to the development of detective fiction and is often cited as an influential work in the genre. It has maintained its popularity over the years and is still widely read and studied today for its compelling storytelling and exploration of societal norms in the Victorian era.