Authors: Cao, Xueqin, 1717?-1763

In Creative Expression

By Anthony Cox

"紅樓夢" by Xueqin Cao is a classic Chinese novel written in the 18th century. The book intricately explores the lives of the wealthy Jia family against the backdrop of the declining imperial society, focusing on themes of love, fate, and the transient nature of life. The narrative introduces various characters, notably the central figure, Jia Baoyu, ...

Authors: Homer, 751? BCE-651? BCE

In Mixed Media Art

By Anthony Cox

"The Odyssey of Homer" by Homer is an epic poem written in ancient times, typically dated to the 8th century BC. This foundational work of Western literature recounts the adventures and challenges faced by Odysseus (Ulysses) as he attempts to return home to Ithaca following the Trojan War, highlighting themes of heroism, fidelity, and the human con...

Authors: Mo, Langzi, pseud.

In Drawing

By Anthony Cox

"西湖佳話" by pseud. Langzi Mo is a historical novel likely written in the late 19th century. The book centers around the legendary figure of 葛洪 (Ge Hong), a man of humble beginnings who becomes a prominent scholar and practitioner of alchemy in ancient China. The narrative explores his journey as he navigates societal expectations, discovers spiritual...

Authors: Pope, Alexander, 1688-1744

In Painting

By Anthony Cox

"An Essay on Man; Moral Essays and Satires" by Alexander Pope is a philosophical poem written in the early 18th century, engaging with profound themes of human existence and moral understanding. The work explores the nature of humanity, the universe's design, and our place within it, emphasizing that the study of mankind is of utmost importance. Th...

Authors: Keats, John, 1795-1821

In Mixed Media Art

By Anthony Cox

"Endymion: A Poetic Romance" by John Keats is a narrative poem written in the early 19th century. It explores themes of beauty, love, and the power of the imagination through the tale of Endymion, a shepherd prince, and his deep and passionate yearnings. The poem intertwines mythical elements with profound reflections on life and dreams, inviting r...

Authors: London, Jack, 1876-1916

In Drawing

By Anthony Cox

"Lost Face" by Jack London is a collection of short stories first published in the late 19th century. The title story follows Subienkow, a Polish revolutionary, who faces brutal torture after being captured by indigenous tribesmen in Russian America. As he awaits his grim fate, he reflects on his life's journey and the savagery that has defined it....

Authors: Bacon, Francis, 1561-1626

In Creative Expression

By Anthony Cox

"New Atlantis" by Francis Bacon is a philosophical and utopian work written during the early 17th century, specifically around the 1620s, shortly before its posthumous publication in 1627. The book presents an idealized vision of a society that embodies enlightenment principles and the pursuit of scientific knowledge. The likely focus of the text i...

Authors: Smiles, Samuel, 1852?-

In Painting

By Anthony Cox

"A Boy's Voyage Round the World" by Samuel Smiles is a non-fiction travel narrative written in the late 19th century. It recounts the experiences of Smiles' young son during a sea voyage that begins in England and takes him to Australia and back, emphasizing the adventurous spirit of youth along with the educational value of travel. The opening of ...

Authors: Weekley, Ernest, 1865-1954

In Mixed Media Art

By Anthony Cox

"The Romance of Names" by Ernest Weekley is a scholarly work that explores the origins of surnames, written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the complexities of how names are formed, their meanings, and the historical context that has shaped personal and family names over time. It aims to illuminate the intricate etymology behind com...