M Elliott BA
05-24-2005, 06:07 PM
This is singularly the greatest 'Romantic' novel ever written. It is quite impossible, however, to appreciate the story fully without knowing the topography of the landscape in which it is set, or the social conditions of the time. <br><br>Every minute spect familiarising yourself with these things will enhance your understanding and for those willing to make the effort to do this, it will also be well worth while re-reading the book once you fully understand the life-style and living conditions referred to throughout.<br><br>The essence of 'Romatic' Love in the literary tradition - unrequited or unattainable love - is never more powerfully or exquisitely portayed than in this novel. Its atmosphere and essence is caught well in the (much maligned!) 1992 film with Juliette Binoche and Ralph Fiennes: the music is equally appropriate.