The Oriental Tale in England in the Eighteenth Century (Classic Reprint)

Explore how English writers shaped and reinterpreted oriental tales in the 18th century, and what that reveals about culture, satire, and literary taste.This scholarly study examines the reception and transformation of oriental tales in England and France. It connects Johnson’s Rasselas to broader literary trends, contrasting serious use of the genre with ironic and satirical responses. The book traces how European readers encountered exotic stories, and how these tales influenced ideas about travel, philosophy, and social norms. How oriental tales were translated, adapted, and circulated in 18th‑century Britain Connections between literary satire and social commentary in the period Analyses of key authors, texts, and the shifting tone from reverence to parody Context for Johnson, Rasselas, and the broader vogue of eastern narrativesIdeal for readers of literary history, Johnson studies, and the history of satire. Read more