The Last Days of Pompeii & Rienzi, Last of the Roman Tribunes (ePub)

Edward George Earle Lytton Bulwer-Lytton, first Baron Lytton (1803-1873), was a versatile English writer, who penned a copious range of literary works including novels, plays, poems, and political essays. Known for his remarkable oratory skills and political achievements, Bulwer-Lytton was also a notable figure in the literary circles of the Victorian era. His prose, often imbued with historical insight and dramatic elements, mirrored the societal norms and challenges of his time. The novel 'The Last Days of Pompeii' (1834), remains one of his most famous works, transporting readers to the tragic final days of the ancient Roman city before its catastrophic demise. In this historical novel, Bulwer-Lytton masterfully combines fact and fiction, crafting a vivid portrayal of love, betrayal, and destiny against the backdrop of an impending natural disaster. 'Rienzi, Last of the Roman Tribunes' (1835) is another prominent historical novel which reflects the author's political interests and his command over the re-telling of historical events. Through the character of Cola di Rienzi, a tribune who sought to restore Rome's bygone glories, Bulwer-Lytton explores the themes of power and revolution, drawing parallels to contemporary political ideologies and movements. Bulwer-Lytton's literary style is known for its embellished language and elaborate descriptions, a hallmark of his blend of romanticism and intellectualism. His works have had a lasting impact on literature, with his phrase 'the pen is mightier than the sword' becoming a timeless axiom.