Quite right!: Boris, Cameron or May? – Q&A

The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám is a celebrated collection of quatrains that delve into profound subjects such as love, mortality, and the existence of God. Translated by Edward FitzGerald, the poem has become a cornerstone of Victorian literature, offering a blend of philosophical skepticism and sensual celebration. Despite its origins in Persian, FitzGerald's translation has made it a beloved work in the English-speaking world.

The novel follows Tess Durbeyfield, a naive and innocent young woman from a poor family who discovers her family's supposed noble lineage. She is sent to claim kinship with the wealthy d'Urberville family, where she is seduced by Alec d'Urberville, leading to a series of tragic events. Tess later marries Angel Clare, but their marriage is short-lived due to Angel's rejection of her past. The novel explores themes of social injustice, the rigid Victorian moral code, and the harsh realities of rural life in England during the late 19th century.

Thomas Hardy's "Return of the Native" is a tragic novel set against the stark backdrop of Egdon Heath in Wessex. The story centers around Eustacia Vye, a beautiful and ambitious woman yearning for escape from her rural surroundings. Her relationship with Clym Yeobright, a native returning from Paris with idealistic goals, forms the core of the narrative. Their clashing desires and the interference of other characters, including Damon Wildeve, lead to a series of tragic events. The novel explores themes of fate, social constraints, and the power of nature to shape human lives. Hardy's masterful portrayal of the characters' inner turmoil and the unforgiving landscape creates a powerful and enduring work of literature.

Thomas Hardy's 'The Mayor of Casterbridge' follows the life of Michael Henchard, a hay trusser who, in a fit of drunkenness, sells his wife and daughter at a country fair. Years later, he rises to prominence as the mayor of Casterbridge, but his past actions come back to haunt him. The novel explores themes of fate, social class, and the consequences of impulsive decisions. Henchard's struggles with guilt, ambition, and the changing fortunes of his life make for a compelling character study. Set against the backdrop of rural England, the book delves into the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of the past.

Published in 1874, 'Far from the Madding Crowd' is Thomas Hardy's first major literary success. The novel is set in Hardy's fictional region of Wessex and follows the life of Bathsheba Everdene, an independent and ambitious young woman, and her interactions with three men: Gabriel Oak, a humble and honest sheep farmer; William Boldwood, a wealthy landowner; and Sergeant Frank Troy, a dashing but reckless soldier. The story delves into themes of love, honour, betrayal, and the harsh realities of rural life in Victorian England. It is known for its vivid descriptions of rural landscapes and its complex characters, and has been adapted into several films, television dramas, and stage productions.

Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden. The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights.