"Views and Opinions" by Ouida, also known as Marie Louise de la Ramée, is a collection of essays and articles that reflect her perspectives on social, cultural, and political issues of her time. Ouida was a prolific Victorian-era novelist and critic known for her wit and sharp observations. In this collection, she shares her thoughts on topics such as literature, society, gender roles, and the arts, offering a blend of criticism, commentary, and personal reflections. Her writing style is characterized by a keen sense of humor, keen insight, and a passionate advocacy for social reform and artistic freedom. The essays reflect Ouida's critical and often controversial views, offering a blend of criticism, commentary, and personal reflection. She critiques the superficiality and materialism she perceives in contemporary society, advocates for artistic integrity and authenticity, and challenges the conventional norms and expectations imposed on women.
Through this collection, Ouida aims to provoke thought and stimulate discussion, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the cultural and societal dynamics of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her eloquent writing and passionate arguments make "Views and Opinions" a compelling read for those interested in the intellectual and cultural debates of the period.
Ouida was the pen name of Marie Louise de la Ramée (1839–1908), a Victorian–era English novelist, short story writer, and critic. She was born in Bury St Edmunds, England, and spent much of her life in London and abroad in continental Europe. Ouida gained fame for her flamboyant and romantic writing style, which captivated readers and critics alike during the late 19th century. Her literary career began with the publication of her first novel, "Granville de Vigne," in 1859, but she achieved broader recognition with subsequent works such as "Under Two Flags" (1867) and "Moths" (1880). Ouida's novels often featured themes of passion, adventure, and social criticism, set against lavish and exotic backdrops. Beyond her fiction, Ouida was also known for her essays and articles, collected in volumes such as "Views and Opinions." In these writings, she expressed her views on various subjects including literature, society, politics, and the arts, reflecting her progressive and often controversial perspectives. Ouida's writing style was characterized by lush descriptions, melodrama, and a keen sense of satire. She was critical of Victorian society's moral constraints and advocated for greater personal freedom and artistic expression. Though her popularity waned in the early 20th century, Ouida remains a significant figure in Victorian literature, known for her bold and unconventional approach to storytelling and social commentary.
