H. Rider Haggard

H. Rider Haggard Biography

Sir Henry Rider Haggard (June 22, 1856 – May 14, 1925) was a prolific English writer, best known for his adventure novels set in exotic locations, particularly Africa. Born in Bradenham, Norfolk, he was the eighth of ten children in a family of modest means. His father, William Meybohm Rider Haggard, was a barrister, and his mother, Ella Doveton, was an author and poet.

At the age of 19, Haggard traveled to South Africa, where he served as the secretary to Sir Henry Bulwer, the Lieutenant-Governor of Natal. His experiences during this time, including witnessing the British annexation of the Transvaal, deeply influenced his later writings. After six years in Africa, he returned to England, married Mariana Louisa Margitson in 1880, and pursued a career in law, though his passion for writing soon took precedence.

Haggard's literary breakthrough came with the publication of King Solomon's Mines in 1885, a novel that introduced the character Allan Quatermain and is considered one of the earliest examples of the 'lost world' genre. This success was followed by She in 1887, further cementing his reputation as a master storyteller. Over his career, he authored more than 50 novels, including Allan Quatermain (1887), Cleopatra (1889), and Ayesha: The Return of She (1905).

Beyond his literary endeavors, Haggard was actively involved in agricultural reform and served on several government commissions. His contributions to literature and public service were recognized with a knighthood in 1912 and later as a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1919. He passed away on May 14, 1925, in London, leaving behind a legacy of adventure literature that continues to captivate readers worldwide.

Trivia About H. Rider Haggard

• Haggard wrote King Solomon's Mines in just six weeks, reportedly on a bet that he could write a novel as good as Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island.
• He was a close friend of fellow author Rudyard Kipling; their works often explored themes of British imperialism.
• Haggard's experiences in Africa provided authentic backdrops for his adventure novels, blending real locations with imaginative storytelling.
• He was an early proponent of agricultural reform in Britain, reflecting his deep interest in rural affairs.

Famous Quotes by H. Rider Haggard

• "It is far better to learn to ride than to grow rich, for the more one has, the more one wants, but once one has learned to ride, one is master of something."
• "The love that is never to be realized will often remain a man's guiding ideal."

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was H. Rider Haggard?

H. Rider Haggard was an English novelist renowned for his adventure novels set in exotic locations, particularly Africa. He is considered a pioneer of the 'lost world' literary genre.

What are some of his notable works?

Some of Haggard's notable works include King Solomon's Mines, She, and Allan Quatermain.

What themes did Haggard explore in his writings?

Haggard's writings often explored themes of adventure, exploration, and the clash of civilizations, reflecting his experiences in colonial Africa.

Related Literary Movements

H. Rider Haggard is associated with the adventure fiction genre and the 'lost world' literary genre, influencing numerous authors with his imaginative storytelling and depictions of exotic locales.

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