The Third and Last Part of Conny-Catching. (1592) (ePub)

Robert Greene (1558-1592) was an English author and playwright, remembered as one of the most popular English prose writers of the late 16th century and a significant figure in the development of the Elizabethan literary scene. His flamboyant life and the polemical nature of his writings provide a lens into the cultural milieu of his time. Greene is perhaps best known for his controversial pamphlet 'The Third and Last Part of Conny-Catching' (1592), which exposes the devious tricks of con artists in his society. His pamphlets are often seen as precursors to the modern detective genre, as they unveil the criminal underworld to his readers. Greene's literary style was characterized by a rich and elaborate prose, filled with classical allusions, which was nonetheless accessible to a wide audience. In addition to his pamphlets, Greene penned several plays and romances, contributing to the popular genres of the day. Despite his literary achievements, Greene's life was marred by financial difficulty and personal scandal, including a public feud with fellow playwrights. He died at a relatively young age, leaving behind a legacy of work that would influence other great writers such as Shakespeare. Today, Greene is studied for both his vivid portrayal of Elizabethan life and his role in the evolution of early modern English literature.