Orlando: A Biography

By Mint Editions, Virginia Woolf, Tilda Swinton

"Orlando: A Biography" by Virginia Woolf is a captivating journey through time and gender, weaving the tale of an English nobleman who undergoes a mysterious transformation, living for centuries without aging. Born during the reign of Elizabeth I, Orlando's adventures traverse historical periods and literary landscapes. As a page at the Elizabethan court, Orlando captures the heart of the elderly queen before embarking on a passionate affair with the elusive Princess Sasha. The vivid backdrop of the Frost Fair in 1608 provides a picturesque setting for their love, but betrayal and Sasha's departure mark a turning point. The narrative takes an unexpected twist when Orlando, now an ambassador, falls into a deep sleep during civil unrest and awakens as a woman. Woolf skillfully explores Orlando's acceptance of this transformation and her evolving amorous inclinations. From embracing a Romani lifestyle to navigating gender roles in the 18th and 19th centuries, Orlando's journey is a testament to resilience and self-discovery. The novel unfolds across centuries, encompassing Orlando's legal victories, unconventional marriage to gender non-conforming sea captain Marmaduke Bonthrop Shelmerdine, and the eventual publication of her long-abandoned poem, "The Oak Tree." The story culminates in a triumphant moment as Orlando's husband soars above their mansion in an airplane, symbolizing the freedom and fulfillment achieved on this extraordinary odyssey. Woolf's exploration of gender, time, and identity in "Orlando" has made it a feminist classic, celebrated for its literary brilliance and thought-provoking themes. This timeless tale, rich in historical and literary allusions, invites readers to ponder the complexities of life, love, and self-expression.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0CRLFTTLT
• ISBN13: 9798851556920
• Release Date: January 2024
• Publisher: Independently published
• Length: 142 Pages
• Dimensions: 9.0" x 0.3" x 6.0"