The books of Evelyn Waugh are well known to the readership. The popularity of the writer around the world every year only grows, and the plots of his works remain relevant to this day. He holds a strong place in the university literature for compulsory reading and leads the ranks of prominent writers of English prose of the 20th century.
Biography of Evelyn Waugh
The future writer was born on October 28, 1903 in London, which at that time was the world capital due to the power of the British Empire. His family belonged to the middle class. After graduating from Lansing preparatory school for boys, Evelyn Waugh entered Oxford, where the children of aristocrats studied, in the circle of which the young man sought to gain a foothold. Life and study at Oxford subsequently served as the backdrop for works that most vividly characterize the writer's skill and unique style.
In 1924, Evelyn Waugh was forced to leave Oxford, as he was not able to continue his studies. At first he taught at a private school in Wales, then changed his job, but could not gain a foothold in his new position and was fired for trying to seduce the housekeeper.
The debut novel Decline and Crash, published in 1928, was enthusiastically received by critics and the public. From a man forced to engage in teaching, drawing and cabinetmaking to earn a living, Evelyn Waugh became one of the most promising writers of the younger generation. His work became popular, and he began to earn on writing articles on topical social topics.
In 1928, the writer married Evelyn Gardner, but the marriage with her was not happy, and in 1930 the couple divorced. A second marriage was concluded with Laura Herbert in April 1937. Evelyn Waugh happily lived with her until the end of his life, together they created a strong family and raised seven children.
Participation in the Second World War
During the Second World War, Evelyn Waugh visited various theaters of military operations and participated in the landing operation in Libya. In 1944, he visited Yugoslavia with a special assignment related to the support of the Yugoslav Catholics before the threat of the dictator I. Tito coming to power. Towards the end of the war, Evelyn Waugh was disappointed at the futility of his efforts and came to the conclusion that his true calling was the fulfillment of a writer's mission.
Writer's work
Creativity Evelyn Waugh devoted to a lot of authoritative scientific research. He is considered to be a master of satire and a successor to the traditions of Jane Austen and Charles Dickens, as James Carens and Frederick Beaty talk about in their works.
Heroes of Evelyn Waugh - caricatured English "gentlemen", posers, scammers, loafers and decent simpletons. In many of his works, the writer turns to English high society, sometimes making fun of him and showing him in a sarcastic light.
The writer's talent and unique style of Evelyn Waugh is especially pronounced in the works:
- "Vile flesh";
- “A Fistful of Dust”;
- “Return to Brideshead”;
- "Unforgettable";
- The Sword of Honor (trilogy);
- "The Test of Gilbert Pinfold."
In addition to satirical novels with elements of black humor and serious works that reflect his commitment to Catholicism, Evelyn Waugh also wrote three biographies, many stories, letters, diaries and travel notes.
Adaptations
The works of the writer Evelyn Waugh have been filmed more than once. The most popular paintings that won the viewer's love and recognition:
- “Return to Brideshead” (1981) - British television series, the plot is based on one of the greatest books of the XX century, which describes the last decade of the greatness of England with its carefree life, rich estates and noisy parties.
- Unforgettable (1965) is a black comedy shot by British film director Tony Richardson based on the eponymous novel by Evelyn Waugh.
- A Fistful of Dust (1988) is a British film directed by Charles Sturridge. The film was highly praised by critics and was nominated for an Oscar.
- Golden Youth is a British film based on the novel Vile Flesh. The film has been awarded prestigious awards at reputable British and international film awards.
Watching films and series based on the works of Evelyn Waugh introduces the viewer to the work of one of the most gifted writers of the 20th century, whose contribution to world literature cannot be overestimated.