Virginia Woolf's most unusual and fantastic creation, a funny, exuberant tale that examines the very nature of sexuality. WITH INTRODUCTIONS BY PETER ACKROYD AND MARGARET REYNOLDSAs his tale begins, Orlando is a passionate young nobleman whose days are spent in rowdy revelry, filled with the colorful delights of Queen Elizabeth's court. By the close, he will have transformed into a modern, thirty-six-year-old woman and three centuries will have passed.
Orlando will not only witness the making of history from its edge, but will find that his unique position as a woman who knows what it is to be a man will give him insight into matters of the heart. The Vintage Classics Virginia Woolf series has been curated by Jeanette Winterson and Margaret Reynolds, and the texts used are based on the original Hogarth Press editions published by Leonard and Virginia Woolf.
Why You Should Read?
- Explores the fluid nature of identity and sexuality through the protagonist's transformation across centuries.
- Offers a unique perspective on historical periods, from Elizabethan England to the modern era, through the eyes of a single character.
- Presents a blend of fantasy and social commentary, making it a distinct work within the genre.
- Features a narrative voice that is both whimsical and intellectually stimulating, providing a fresh reading experience.
About the Author
Virginia Woolf is a highly influential modernist writer, known for her innovative use of stream of consciousness and exploration of psychological depth. She is considered a pioneer in the feminist literary movement, challenging societal norms and expectations through her complex characters and experimental narratives. Her works, including "Orlando", continue to captivate readers with their lyrical prose and profound insights into the human condition. Woolf's impact on literature is undeniable, shaping the course of 20th-century fiction.