Oscar Wilde
Subtitle: a long and lovely suicide
By: Melissa Knox.
Publisher: Yale University Press
Published: 1994
Place of publication: New Haven
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 185
Subjects: Wilde, Oscar, 1854-1900.; Authors, Irish -- 19th century -- Biography.; Psychoanalysis and literature.
Description: In the first full-length psychoanalytic biography of Oscar Wilde, Melissa Knox explores the link between little-known childhood events and figures in his life and his psychological development to explain both Wilde's creativity and his self-destructive heroism.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p.167- 185) and index.
" Knox's daring new biography of Oscar Wilde has much in common with its subject: the book is shocking, irreverent, witty, and eloquent. . . Like the great wit himself, it will enhance any bookshelf."—Susan Bailee, Victorian Studies
"An intriguing addition to the vast canon of Wildean literary and personal analysis."—Jonah Seth Disend, American Theatre
"This book offers new facts about Wilde's medical condition, fresh insights into his character, and original readings of his works.  It is an important contribution to our understanding of the man, his situation, and his accomplishment."—George Stade
"An original and important reading of Oscar Wilde's works and life, illuminated by an acute and informed use of psychoanalytic theory and insights."—Steven Marcus