10 Underrated Authors in English Literature
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10 Underrated Authors in English Literature You Should Know About
English literature is full of famous names like William Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and Charles Dickens. These authors are celebrated worldwide for their brilliant works, which have stood the test of time. But while many great writers have received attention and recognition, there are several underrated authors whose works are just as impactful. These writers may not be as famous, but their books offer deep insights into the human experience and deserve more appreciation.
Here I will introduce you to 10 underrated authors in English literature that you should know about. These writers may not have received the fame they deserve, but their contributions to literature are remarkable. Let’s dive into their works and explore the impact they have had on English literature.
1. Mary Shelley (1797–1851)
Mary Shelley is often remembered for her famous novel Frankenstein. While Frankenstein has gained recognition in popular culture, Mary Shelley’s other works have been largely overlooked. Shelley was a pioneering female writer during a time when women’s voices were often ignored. Frankenstein explores the themes of scientific experimentation, morality, and the dangers of playing God.
In addition to Frankenstein, Mary Shelley wrote novels, short stories, and essays that examine complex themes of society, love, and human nature. If you haven’t read her other works, like The Last Man (a post-apocalyptic novel), you’re missing out on a wealth of brilliant writing.
2. Zora Neale Hurston (1891–1960)
Zora Neale Hurston was an African-American novelist and anthropologist whose works have had a significant influence on literature. She is best known for her novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, which is often considered one of the most important works of African-American literature. The book explores themes of race, gender, and identity.
Though Hurston’s work was not widely appreciated during her lifetime, she has gained recognition in recent years for her powerful exploration of African-American culture. Her writing brings to life the experience of Black women in the early 20th century and continues to inspire readers today.
3. Doris Lessing (1919–2013)
Doris Lessing is a British author who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2007. However, despite this prestigious recognition, she remains somewhat underrated. Her most famous work, The Golden Notebook, is a complex novel that explores the psychological and political struggles of women in the 20th century.
Lessing’s works often address themes of feminism, social justice, and mental health. Her bold approach to writing about personal and political issues makes her one of the most significant writers of the 20th century, but her works are often overshadowed by other literary figures. If you are interested in thought-provoking literature, Doris Lessing is a must-read.
4. Jean Rhys (1890–1979)
Jean Rhys is best known for her novel Wide Sargasso Sea, a prequel to Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre. Rhys’s novel reimagines the story of Bertha Mason, the “madwoman in the attic,” from Brontë’s work, offering a deep exploration of race, colonialism, and identity.
Although Rhys has received some recognition for her work, she remains relatively underrated. Her writing focuses on the complexities of relationships, personal trauma, and the effects of colonialism on identity. Rhys’s unique perspective and masterful storytelling deserve more recognition in the world of literature.
5. Barbara Pym (1913–1980)
Barbara Pym was a British novelist who was often compared to Jane Austen for her witty and insightful portrayal of English society. Her novels explore the lives of ordinary people in everyday settings, often focusing on the relationships and social dynamics within small communities.
While Pym’s work was popular during her lifetime, she was somewhat overshadowed by other contemporary authors. Today, she is considered a writer ahead of her time, and her works like Excellent Women and A Few Green Leaves offer a charming and humorous look at life in post-war Britain. If you enjoy novels with subtle humor and sharp observations, Barbara Pym’s works are worth reading.
6. E. M. Forster (1879–1970)
E. M. Forster is a well-known name in English literature, but his works are often overshadowed by those of other major British authors. His novels, such as A Passage to India and Howards End, explore complex themes of social class, race, and human connection. A Passage to India, in particular, addresses the tensions between the British and Indian cultures during the colonial period.
Although Forster’s works are frequently praised for their insightful commentary on society, his name is not as widely recognized as other literary giants. If you enjoy exploring themes of social justice and cultural conflict, E. M. Forster’s novels are a great choice.
7. Alfred, Lord Tennyson (1809–1892)
Alfred, Lord Tennyson is one of the most celebrated poets of the Victorian era, but he remains underrated compared to his contemporaries like Charles Dickens or Thomas Hardy. Tennyson’s poetry explores themes of love, death, and nature, and his works such as The Lady of Shalott and In Memoriam are deeply reflective and poignant.
Despite his popularity during his lifetime, Tennyson’s works are often overshadowed by the more famous authors of his era. His poems, however, continue to resonate with readers today, offering timeless insights into the human condition. If you enjoy beautiful, lyrical poetry, Tennyson is an author you should explore.
8. Henry Green (1905–1973)
Henry Green was an English novelist whose works were celebrated by critics but largely ignored by the public. His novels, such as Loving and Party Going, often explore the lives of upper-class English families, using a distinctive narrative style that emphasizes the intricacies of language and dialogue.
Green’s unique approach to storytelling and his subtle explorations of class and social dynamics make him an important but often overlooked figure in English literature. His works are known for their complexity and wit, and they continue to attract readers who appreciate literary experimentation.
9. Sylvia Townsend Warner (1893–1978)
Sylvia Townsend Warner was an English writer whose works blend fantasy and reality in a way that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. Her most famous novel, Lolly Willowes, tells the story of a woman who rejects the expectations of society and embraces a life of independence.
Warner’s writing is often characterized by its deep exploration of human desires and relationships, as well as its social and feminist themes. Though she was well-regarded by critics, her works have not enjoyed the widespread popularity they deserve. If you enjoy feminist literature with a touch of magic and wit, Sylvia Townsend Warner’s books are definitely worth checking out.
10. Angela Carter (1940–1992)
Angela Carter was an English novelist and short story writer whose works are known for their feminist themes, dark humor, and magical realism. Her novel The Bloody Chamber is a collection of retold fairy tales with a feminist twist, offering a fresh perspective on familiar stories.
Though Carter is recognized for her innovative and bold approach to literature, she is often overshadowed by other feminist writers. Her works explore themes of sexuality, gender roles, and the subversion of traditional narratives. Angela Carter’s writing continues to inspire and challenge readers, making her an underrated literary figure who deserves more recognition.
Conclusion
English literature is rich with talent, and while many authors have received their due recognition, there are still many underrated voices whose works are equally deserving of attention. From the groundbreaking novels of Mary Shelley to the feminist writings of Angela Carter, these 10 authors offer diverse perspectives and important contributions to the literary world.
If you are an avid reader or a student of literature, exploring the works of these underrated authors will open up new worlds of imagination and insight. So, dive into their books, appreciate their unique styles, and discover the hidden gems of English literature that have shaped the way we read and think about the world.
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