Caleb Williams; Or, Things as They Are

Name: Caleb Williams; Or, Things as They Are
Author: William Godwin

By William Godwin

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British Literature Novels

About This Book

A first-person narrator recounts his employment under a man with a concealed past that draws suspicion; after uncovering a damaging secret he becomes the target of a campaign of surveillance, legal accusation, and social ostracism. The narrative traces his attempts to vindicate himself while exposing networks of power, class injustice, and the manipulations of law and reputation. Episodes include encounters with criminal bands, betrayals, flight, imprisonment, and moral reflection. Through a series of revelations and reversals the work interrogates the interplay of guilt, authority, and personal liberty, presenting a sustained critique of institutions that enforce secrecy and punish truth.

About the Author

William Godwin

William Godwin (1756-1836) was an English philosopher, novelist, and political writer, often regarded as one of the first proponents of anarchism. His most notable work, "Caleb Williams; Or, Things as They Are," explores themes of social injustice and the nature of authority, reflecting his radical views on government and society. Godwin's writings contributed significantly to the development of the modern novel and political thought. He was also the husband of Mary Wollstonecraft, a prominent advocate for women's rights, and his memoirs provide insight into the intellectual climate of his time. Godwin's influence extends beyond literature into the realms of philosophy and political theory.