Charles Reade

About the Author

Charles Reade (1814-1884) was a prolific English novelist, dramatist, and journalist whose works bridged the gap between Victorian sensationalism and social realism, often drawing from meticulous historical research and contemporary issues. Educated at Oxford, he initially pursued a career in law before turning to literature, where he gained fame for his gripping narratives that exposed societal injustices, including the plight of the working class and the flaws in the legal system. Reade's commitment to factual accuracy led him to incorporate real events and documents into his fiction, earning him both acclaim and controversy. His novel Griffith Gaunt, or Jealousy, exemplifies his talent for weaving intense psychological drama with moral inquiry, cementing his legacy as a bold voice in 19th-century literature.