Character Sketches of Romance, Fiction and the Drama, Vol. 3 A Revised American Edition of the Reader's Handbook

A Victorian‑era guide to the great figures of romance, fiction and drama, this volume gathers vivid character sketches that once helped readers identify the personalities populating classic novels and stage works. The editor’s notes explain the occasional typographical quirks, while hover‑over pop‑ups provide transliterations of Greek terms for modern ears. With an encyclopedic eye, the book surveys both beloved heroes and lesser‑known supporting cast members, offering crisp summaries that illuminate their roles and motivations.

Beyond the text, the listener will enjoy detailed descriptions of the period’s photogravures and etchings that originally accompanied each entry, bringing visual art to life through vivid narration. The work also includes a handy list of uncommon diacritics and symbols, turning a straightforward reference into an engaging exploration of 19th‑century literary culture. Ideal for anyone curious about the building blocks of classic storytelling, it offers a clear, friendly companion for study or casual listening.