Arabian Nights or One Thousand and One Nights (Andrew Lang) + New Arabian Nights (R. L. Stevenson)

This anthology unites the enchanting world of 'Arabian Nights or One Thousand and One Nights,' as revisited by Andrew Lang, with the captivating 'New Arabian Nights' by Robert Louis Stevenson, offering a rich tapestry of narrative adventure and mystique. The collection spans a spectrum of literary styles, from the folkloric and fantastical to the pioneering elements of adventure and suspense fiction. It underscores the transformation of traditional tales into complex, multi-layered stories that challenge and expand upon the original narratives. The inclusion of such works highlights the diversity and evolutionary trajectory of literary forms, inviting readers to explore the intersections of cultural storytelling and early modernist expression. The backgrounds of Lang and Stevenson, both prominent figures in the literary world, provide a fascinating lens through which to explore this collection. Lang, a prolific collector of folk and fairy tales, and Stevenson, a master of narrative voice and atmosphere, each bring their unique perspectives to these tales. Their works collectively resonate with themes of power, identity, and the supernatural, offering a vibrant exploration of cultural and literary movements spanning from folklore collection to the genesis of modern fantasy and adventure genres. This anthology is recommended for readers eager to immerse themselves in the rich diversity of stories that bridge the realms of fairy tale and fiction. The collection offers a unique opportunity to engage with the works of two master storytellers, whose contributions to literature have not only enriched the genre of fantasy and adventure but have also provided invaluable insights into the cultural psyche and literary innovations of their times. Through this anthology, readers are invited to embark on a journey that spans centuries and cultures, fostering a deeper appreciation of the intricate tapestry of human storytelling.

Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1894) was a Scottish novelist, poet, essayist, and travel writer, whose literary contributions have become classics of English literature. Stevenson, scion of lighthouse-builders, battled with lifelong ill health, which compelled him to live much of his life in more amenable climates; this experience shaped much of his writing. Noted for his inventive and vivid storytelling, he became most famous for works such as 'Treasure Island' (1883), 'The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' (1886), and 'Kidnapped' (1886). Stevenson's foray into the exotic and suspenseful is also visible in 'New Arabian Nights' (1882), a collection that harnesses the mystical allure of the East and showcases his skill in ironic and fantastic tales that speak to universal human experiences. These narratives are part of his diverse opus which combines adventure with psychological depth, reflecting Stevenson's avant-garde approach to fiction and his ability to traverse genres. While Stevenson did not pen the classic 'Arabian Nights' or 'One Thousand and One Nights'—often associated with the name Andrew Lang—he undeniably contributed to the western literary canon with his unique pastiches and genres such as the short story cycle exemplified in 'New Arabian Nights.' Stevenson's literary style, often categorized under the movement of romanticism, is marked by his lucid, descriptive language, and his innate gift for engaging the reader with characters that are enduringly complex.