The Witch's Head - Haggard, H. Rider

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Résumé :
The Witch's Head is the second novel by H. Rider Haggard, which he wrote just prior to King Solomon's Mines. Haggard wrote the novel following his debut effort Dawn. He was unable to find any magazine that would serialise the story, but it was accepted for publication by the firm that had put out Dawn. Haggard later wrote that although, except for the African part, it is not in my opinion so good a story as Dawn, it was extremely well received and within certain limits very successful. The book was a minor success, earning Haggard a profit of fifty pounds.

Biographie:
his mother, Ella Doveton, was a poet and author. At 19, he ventured to southern Africa as secretary to the governor of Natal, Sir Henry Bulwer, immersing himself in the continent's landscapes and cultures. This experience profoundly influenced his later writings.Returning to England in 1882, Haggard pursued law but soon turned to literature, achieving fame with King Solomon's Mines in 1885. This novel introduced Allan Quatermain, a character who would feature in numerous subsequent works. Haggard's storytelling captivated readers with tales of adventure set in exotic locales.Beyond fiction, Haggard engaged in agricultural reform and land use issues, reflecting his diverse interests. Knighted in 1912 and appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1919, he was recognized for his contributions to literature and public service. Haggard passed away in 1925, leaving a legacy that continues to influence adventure literature....

Sommaire:
Sir Henry Rider Haggard, born on June 22, 1856, in Bradenham, United Kingdom, was a prominent English writer known for his adventure fiction, particularly those set in exotic locations like Africa. His novels often blend thrilling adventures with elements of fantasy and exploration. Haggard was also active in land reform efforts across the British Empire, advocating for improvements in the lives of indigenous peoples. He married Mariana Louisa Margitson in 1880, with whom he had two daughters. Haggard's parents were William Meybohm Rider Haggard and Ella Doveton. Andrew Lang, born March 31, 1844, in Selkirk, United Kingdom, was a Scottish poet, novelist, and literary critic, best known for collecting folk and fairy tales. A scholar with a broad range of interests, Lang contributed to anthropology and was a notable figure at the University of St Andrews, where the Andrew Lang lectures were named in his honor. Lang's marriage to Leonora Blanche Alleyne in 1875 marked a personal chapter in his life. His legacy is deeply embedded in children's literature, with his fairy tale collections remaining influential. Lang passed away on July 20, 1912, in Banchory, United Kingdom....