Explores the detailed evolution of the work through its composition and on to eventual posthumous publicationStevenson's unfinished masterpiece, Weir of Hermiston, has been entirely re-edited from his final manuscript, revealing a rather different novel from the bowdlerised version produced posthumously by his friends. Stevenson revisits the conflicted Scotland of James Hogg and Sir Walter Scott as well as that of his own youth, but also responds to recently published novels. A substantial essay explores the complex early publication history of the novel on both sides of the Atlantic, and exceptionally full explanatory notes and other background information are provided.Key FeaturesComposition history drawing on draft manuscript material in various US archivesDetailed account of early publication history in UK and USADetails of early reception in UK and USAFull Explanatory Notes including citations from draft manuscript materialHistorical and Geographical Notes

Presents a collection of critical essays on the works of Robert Louis Stevenson.

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850–1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, travel writer, and essayist. He was a celebrity during his life-time for works like “Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” and “Treasure Island.” Now he is one of the most translated authors in the world. Praised by many as a potential masterpiece, “The Weir of Hermiston” tells the story of young Archie Weir from a rich Edinburgh family. Having abandoned all attempts to get along with his father, Archie is banished from his family and sent to live as the local landlord on family property in the Borders hamlet Hermiston. There Archie meets and falls in love with a young local girl named Kirstie.

In recent years there has been a wave of enthusiasm for the author of these works, with the publication of major biographies and collections of his letters.

Robert Louis Stevenson, Literary Networks and Transatlantic Publishing in the 1890s investigates Stevenson and the geographies of his literary networks during the last years of his life and after his death. It profiles a series of figures who worked with Stevenson, negotiated his publications on both sides of the Atlantic, wrote for him or were inspired by him. Using archival material, correspondence, fiction and biographies it moves across these literary networks. It deploys the concept of ‘literary prosthetics’ to frame its analysis of gatekeepers, tastemakers, agents, collaborators and authorial surrogates in the transatlantic production of Stevenson’s writing. Case studies of understudied individuals and broader consideration of the networks they represent contribute to knowledge of transatlantic publishing in the 1890s, understanding of transatlantic culture, Stevenson studies, current interest in the workings of literary communities and in nineteenth-century mobility.

The Critical Heritage gathers together a large body of critical sources on major figures in literature. Each volume presents contemporary responses to a writer's work, enabling students and researchers to read the material themselves.

In 'The Complete Novels of Robert L. Stevenson (Illustrated)', readers are taken on a literary journey through the works of one of the most acclaimed authors of the 19th century. Stevenson's writing style is characterized by vivid imagery, dynamic characters, and a mastery of storytelling that captivates readers from start to finish. This collection includes classics such as 'Treasure Island', 'Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde', and 'Kidnapped', offering a diverse range of genres from adventure to mystery to psychological thriller, showcasing Stevenson's versatility as a writer. The vibrant illustrations accompanying the texts add an extra layer of depth to the reading experience, bringing the stories to life in a visually stunning way. Robert Louis Stevenson, a Scottish novelist and travel writer, drew inspiration from his own experiences and travels to create the rich and engaging narratives found in this collection. His adventurous spirit and keen observation of human nature are evident in his works, making them timeless classics that continue to resonate with readers of all ages. I highly recommend 'The Complete Novels of Robert L. Stevenson (Illustrated)' to anyone seeking a literary escape into worlds filled with intrigue, adventure, and unforgettable characters. This collection is a testament to Stevenson's enduring legacy in the world of literature and a must-read for anyone looking to delve into the works of a master storyteller.

Weir of Hermiston (1896) is an unfinished novel by Robert Louis Stevenson. It is markedly different from his previous works in style and has often been praised as a potential masterpiece. It was cut short by Stevenson's sudden death in 1894 from a cerebral hemorrhage. The novel is set at the time of the Napoleonic Wars. The novel tells the story of Archie Weir, a youth born into an upper-class Edinburgh family. Because of his Romantic sensibilities and sensitivity, Archie is estranged from his father, who is depicted as the coarse and cruel judge of a criminal court. By mutual consent, Archie is banished from his family of origin and sent to live as the local laird on a family property in the vicinity of the Borders hamlet Hermiston. While serving as the laird, Archie meets and falls in love with Kirstie (Christina). As the two are deepening their relationship, the book breaks off. Confusingly, there are two characters in the novel called Christina, the younger of whom is Archie's sweetheart.

Stevensoń09s unfinished masterpiece, Weir of Hermiston, has been entirely re-edited from his final manuscript, revealing a rather different novel from the bowdlerised version produced posthumously by his friends. Stevenson revisits the conflicted Scotland of James Hogg and Sir Walter Scott as well as that of his own youth, but also responds to recently published novels. A substantial essay explores the complex early publication history of the novel on both sides of the Atlantic, and exceptionally full explanatory notes and other background information are provided.