PODCAST · arts

Reviews

by Oscar Wilde

Wilde’s literary legacy has proven remarkably resilient, surviving scrutiny that would have embarrassed both him and his admirers. This collection of reviews offers a fascinating glimpse into his work, showcasing pieces that range from astutely prophetic to those tinged with bias—both friendly and hostile. Readers will find Wilde at his wittiest and most engaging, with only a handful of reviews lacking color. Interestingly, when most of these critiques were penned, Wilde had yet to publish the works that would later cement his fame across Europe. Nonetheless, as the leading figure of the aesthetic movement, he was already a prominent personality in Paris and London. This volume not only highlights the evolution of Wilde’s reputation but also emphasizes his lasting impact on literature, suggesting that even contemporaries underestimated his eventual significance. (Summary from Introduction by Robert Ross)