Anthony Hope

Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins, better known simply as Anthony Hope, was an eminent English novelist and playwright born on February 9, 1863, in London. A barrister by profession, Hope found his true calling in the literary field. His forte in adventure novels shone splendidly in his most celebrated work, 'The Prisoner of Zenda' (1894), which went on to become a classic in the genre and a defining piece of the Ruritanian romance – narratives set in fictional European countries. The book's intricate plot of political intrigue and identity swap has fascinated readers for generations, giving rise to numerous adaptations across various media platforms. Hope's writing style, characterized by a blend of wit and adventure, captivated the Victorian audience, earning him a special place among the period's popular authors. While 'The Prisoner of Zenda' is his masterpiece, Hope wrote numerous other novels, including its sequel 'Rupert of Hentzau' (1898), which further solidified his reputation. His contributions to English literature were recognized officially when he was knighted in 1918. Sir Anthony Hope Hawkins' legacy lives on through his writing, illustrating the timeless appeal of well-crafted stories. He passed away on July 8, 1933, but his work remains influential, continuing to inspire writers and readers alike. (Bleiler, E.F. (1972). 'The Checklist of Fantastic Literature'. Chicago: Shasta Publishers.)