STEPHEN FRY: from rebellion to reverence

Published in 1910, 'Howards End' is a critical examination of social class, capitalism, and personal relationships in Edwardian England. The novel revolves around the Wilcoxes, a wealthy family with colonial ties; the Schlegel siblings, who are intellectually inclined and part of the Bloomsbury Group; and the Basts, a struggling lower-class couple. It delves into themes of class struggle, the impact of industrialization, and the moral contradictions of imperialism. The story is marked by a complex web of relationships, inheritances, and personal tragedies that highlight the societal divisions and cultural disparities of the time.

The Book of Common Prayer is a foundational liturgical text of the Anglican Communion. First published in 1549 during the reign of Edward VI, it was compiled primarily by Thomas Cranmer, Archbishop of Canterbury. The book includes complete forms of service for daily and Sunday worship, such as Morning and Evening Prayer, the Litany, Holy Communion, and services for baptism, confirmation, marriage, visitation of the sick, and burial. It has undergone several revisions, notably in 1552, 1559, 1604, and 1662, with the 1662 version remaining the standard for most Anglican churches. The book is known for its beautiful language and its role in shaping Anglican doctrine and worship.

Written by Oscar Wilde, 'The Importance of Being Earnest' is a farcical comedy that critiques the social norms and hypocrisy of the upper class in Victorian England. The play follows Jack Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff, who invent fictional identities to escape their social obligations. Jack pretends to have a wastrel brother named Ernest, while Algernon invents a sick friend named Bunbury. The plot involves mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and humorous social commentary, ultimately exposing the artificiality and trivial concerns of the upper class. The play is celebrated for its witty dialogue and timeless humor, making it a classic in English literature.

Peter Singer's "The Life You Can Save" is a compelling argument for effective altruism, urging readers to donate to charities that demonstrably alleviate suffering. Singer challenges conventional thinking about philanthropy, emphasizing the moral obligation to maximize the positive impact of our donations. The book presents a practical framework for identifying and supporting high-impact charities, focusing on cost-effectiveness and measurable results. Singer's work has sparked significant debate and inspired many to re-evaluate their charitable giving. The book's core message is that even small contributions can make a substantial difference in the lives of others.

De Profundis is a deeply personal and introspective letter written by Oscar Wilde during his imprisonment in Reading Gaol. The letter explores his complex relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas and delves into themes of suffering, redemption, and spiritual growth. Wilde reflects on his past life, critiques Douglas's behavior, and discusses his identification with Christ as a symbol of individualism and artistic expression.

Set in 19th-century Russia, 'The Brothers Karamazov' is a novel that delves into the lives of the Karamazov family, focusing on the three brothers—Dmitri, Ivan, and Alyosha—and their complex relationships with their father, Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov. The novel is a murder mystery, a courtroom drama, and an exploration of erotic rivalry, faith, doubt, and reason. It examines the human psyche, moral dilemmas, and the search for meaning in a world fraught with suffering and uncertainty. The story revolves around the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich and the subsequent trial of Dmitri, accused of the crime, while exploring deeper themes of Russian life, social and spiritual striving, and the clash between faith and reason.