A Study in Smollet

By Howard Swazey Buck

"A Study in Smollett" by Howard Swazey Buck is a comprehensive scholarly examination of the life and literary output of Tobias Smollett, one of the foremost figures of the eighteenth-century English novel. This critical work provides a deep dive into the creative process and thematic preoccupations of the Scottish author, known for his vibrant picaresque narratives and sharp satirical wit. Buck offers a detailed analysis of Smollett's most influential contributions to literature, including "The Adventures of Roderick Random" and "The Expedition of Humphry Clinker," evaluating their structure, characterization, and historical significance.

The text explores Smollett's unique position in the literary landscape, investigating how his experiences as a surgeon and a traveler informed the realism and grit of his prose. Buck also addresses the evolution of Smollett's style and his impact on subsequent generations of writers. By contextualizing Smollett within the broader development of the novel, this volume serves as a vital resource for scholars of Georgian-era literature and those interested in the foundations of narrative fiction. "A Study in Smollett" remains an essential piece of literary criticism, highlighting the enduring relevance and technical mastery of a writer who helped define the early modern novel.

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• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025321529
• ISBN13: 9781025321523
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 236 Pages
• Weight: 1.12 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.1" x 9.2"