Charles Kingsley

The Water-Babies (1863) is one of the strangest and most powerful children's books ever published. Written by an Anglican clergyman with an insatiable love of science, the story combines an uplifting moral about redemption with a crash course in evolutionary theory, and has an imaginative exuberance equalled only by Lewis Carroll. Young Tom is a chimney-sweeper's boy who one day falls into a river and drowns, only to be transformed into a water-baby. Through his encounters with friendly fish, curious lobsters, and characters such as Mrs Doasyouwouldbedoneby, he sloughs off his selfish nature and earns his just reward. Tom's comic adventures are constantly interrupted by Kingsley's sideswipes at contemporary issues such as child labour and the British education system, and they offer a rich satiric take on the great scientific debates of the day. The story's linguistic and narrative oddities make it an unclassifiable fantasy that is both a naturalist's handbook and an aquatic Pilgrim's Progress, and its vibrant symbolism also reveals some of Kingsley's more private obsessions regarding cleanliness and sanitation reform. This new edition reprints the original complete text and illustrations, and includes a lively introduction and notes that reveal the full richness of this bizarre but compelling fairy tale.

La adaptación del relato de Charles Kingsley, las excelentes fotografías de Zena Holloway y las delicadas ilustraciones de Heidi Taylor dan vida a este enigmático y original cuento onírico. Sin perder la mezcla de humor, fantasia y deliciosa inocencia, esta nueva version de Los niños del agua muestra que la fuerte carga moral del original sigue siendo tan relevante hoy en dia como lo fue hace ciento cincuenta años. Acompaña a Tom en sus aventuras subacuaticas y emprenderas un viaje magico, en el que participan personajes imaginarios inolvidables como la señora Dondelasdanlastomas, la hermosa libelula, la aterradora nutria y la encantadora Ellie. Al finalizar el periplo sabras si, de verdad, existen los niños del agua.

In "Phaethon: Loose Thoughts for Loose Thinkers," Charles Kingsley delves into the tumultuous intersection of science and spirituality, presenting a compelling argument for the reconciliation of faith and reason during the Victorian era. With Kingsleys characteristic charm and wit, the narrative takes on a mix of allegory and philosophical musing, reminiscent of the Romantic writers, yet distinctly rooted in the rational debates of his time. This text serves as a critical reflection on contemporary thought, addressing the crises of belief while showcasing an innovative take on classical mythology through the story of Phaethon, the son of the sun god, who embodies hubris and the quest for identity. Charles Kingsley, a prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene as a novelist, historian, and social reformer, was deeply influenced by the scientific advancements of his era, particularly Darwins theories. His background in theology and earnest involvement in social issues provided him with a unique perspective, driving him to advocate for a balanced approach to faith and empirical inquiry. Kingsleys diverse experiences with both nature and the human condition shaped his views, leading him to create a work that encapsulates the spirit of his time while challenging its intellectual assumptions. "Phaethon: Loose Thoughts for Loose Thinkers" is an essential read for those exploring the complexities of belief and the evolving relationship between science and religion. Its rich literary style and thought-provoking themes resonate with contemporary inquiry, making it a timeless exploration of identity and knowledge. This work is highly recommended for readers seeking to understand the nuanced conversations of the Victorian period while reflecting on the continuing relevance of these discussions today.

After being chased from the home of an upper-class young girl called Ellie, chimney-sweep Tom falls asleep and tumbles into a river. There he is transformed into a 'water-baby' and his adventures truly begin. Beneath the surface, he enters a magical world full of strange and wonderful creatures, where he must prove his moral worth in order to earn what he truly desires. One of the most unusual children's books ever written, The Water-Babies, subtitled 'A Fairy Tale for a Land-Baby', was originally intended as a satire in support of Charles Darwin's On the Origin of Species, and explores many of the issues at the forefront of biologists' minds at the time. First published as a complete novel in 1863, Charles Kingsley's classic tale also explores ideas about religion, the Victorian education system and the working conditions of children and the poor. With glorious black and white illustrations by W. Heath Robinson and an introduction by author and journalist Christina Hardyment. Designed to appeal to the book lover, the Macmillan Collector's Library is a series of beautiful gift editions of much loved classic titles. Macmillan Collector's Library are books to love and treasure.

In "Hereward, the Last of the English," Charles Kingsley weaves a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of the Norman Conquest in the 11th century. This historical novel employs a richly descriptive literary style, intertwining poetic language with vivid characterizations that bring to life the struggles of Hereward, an English hero who stands against foreign invasion. Kingsleys work not only reflects the themes of nationalism and resistance but also evokes the romantic fascination with medieval history prevalent in Victorian literature, highlighting the tension between individual valor and the overarching forces of history. Charles Kingsley, a noted Victorian author, clergyman, and social reformer, was deeply influenced by the political and social issues of his time. His advocacy for justice and equality can be traced back to his experiences with the working classes, which shaped his vision of a heroic figure like Hereward. Kingsleys scholarly interests in history and mythology further informed his portrayal of characters facing moral and existential dilemmas, establishing a connection between past and present societal struggles. This book is highly recommended for readers interested in historical fiction that reflects on themes of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. Kingsleys engaging prose invites both historical enthusiasm and critical contemplation, making it a significant read for anyone keen on exploring the nuances of English identity during a pivotal era.

In "Town and Country Sermons," Charles Kingsley weaves a rich tapestry of religious thought, exploring the dichotomy between urban and rural life through a series of sermons that resonate with deep moral and social commentary. Written in an accessible yet eloquent style, Kingsleys work reflects the Victorian eras preoccupation with social reform and the ethical responsibilities of individuals within their communities. The sermons emphasize the value of a harmonious relationship with nature and underscore the moral imperatives addressing the injustices wrought by industrialization. Kingsley, a clergyman and a prominent figure in the Victorian literary and social landscape, drew upon his own experiences as an advocate for the poor and a critic of industrial excess. His dual role as both a pastor and a social reformer profoundly influenced his writing, prompting him to address the spiritual needs of his contemporaries at a time of great social upheaval. Kingsleys commitment to bridging the divide between classes and his belief in the transformative power of faith are evident throughout this collection. "Town and Country Sermons" is highly recommended for readers interested in the intersection of spirituality and social ethics during the Victorian period. Kingsleys insights remain strikingly relevant today, providing not only a historical perspective but also a call to recognize the moral dimensions of our everyday lives. This collection serves as an essential resource for those seeking to delve into the profound connections between faith, community, and the natural world.

Tom, a mistreated young chimney sweep finds himself transported into a fantastic underwater world where he becomes a water baby. A vivid and exciting story that created serious issues about childrens working hours in Victorian Britain.

Once upon a time there were two princes who were twins. Their names were Acrisius and Prtus, and they lived in the pleasant vale of Argos, far away in Hellas. They had fruitful meadows and vineyards, sheep and oxen, great herds of horses feeding down in Lerna Fen, and all that men could need to make them blest: and yet they were wretched, because they were jealous of each other. From the moment they were born they began to quarrel; and when they grew up each tried to take away the others share of the kingdom, and keep all for himself. So first Acrisius drove out Prtus; and he went across the seas, and brought home a foreign princess for his wife, and foreign warriors to help him, who were called Cyclopes; and drove out Acrisius in his turn; and then they fought a long while up and down the land, till the quarrel was settled, and Acrisius took Argos and one half the land, and Prtus took Tiryns and the other half. And Prtus and his Cyclopes built around Tiryns great walls of unhewn stone, which are standing to this day.But there came a prophet to that hard-hearted Acrisius and prophesied against him, and said, Because you have risen up against your own blood, your own blood shall rise up against you; because you have sinned against your kindred, by your kindred you shall be punished. Your daughter Danae shall bear a son, and by that sons hands you shall die. So the Gods have ordained, and it will surely come to pass.

Once upon a time there was a little chimney-sweep, and his name was Tom. That is a short name, and you have heard it before, so you will not have much trouble in remembering it. He lived in a great town in the North country, where there were plenty of chimneys to sweep, and plenty of money for Tom to earn and his master to spend. He could not read nor write, and did not care to do either; and he never washed himself, for there was no water up the court where he lived. He had never been taught to say his prayers. He never had heard of God, or of Christ, except in words which you never have heard, and which it would have been well if he had never heard. He cried half his time, and laughed the other half. He cried when he had to climb the dark flues, rubbing his poor knees and elbows raw; and when the soot got into his eyes, which it did every day in the week; and when his master beat him, which he did every day in the week; and when he had not enough to eat, which happened every day in the week likewise. And he laughed the other half of the day, when he was tossing halfpennies with the other boys, or playing leap-frog over the posts, or bowling stones at the horses legs as they trotted by, which last was excellent fun, when there was a wall at hand behind which to hide.

Editor: F. Max Muller

Editor: Fanny Kingsley