Tristram Shandy by Laurence Sterne (Wordsworth Classics)

Description

“Tristram Shandy” is a novel written by Laurence Sterne and published in nine volumes from 1759 to 1767. It is an innovative and experimental work that stands out for its unconventional narrative structure and humor. Here’s a brief description of the novel:

Laurence Sterne’s “Tristram Shandy” is a groundbreaking work of English literature that defies traditional storytelling conventions. The novel’s central character, Tristram Shandy, attempts to recount the story of his life from birth, but the narrative takes unexpected turns, digressions, and diversions that create a complex and fragmented structure.

The novel is known for its playful and self-aware narrative style, incorporating elements such as blank pages, diagrams, and unconventional typography. Sterne’s humor is often satirical, and he addresses the reader directly, making the novel a unique and engaging reading experience.

“Tristram Shandy” is considered a precursor to modernist literature for its experimentation with form and narrative technique. The novel’s wit and inventive approach have contributed to its enduring reputation as a classic of English literature, admired for its clever narrative innovations and its exploration of the limits of storytelling.