To the Hermitage
To the Hermitage by Malcolm Bradbury, published by Picador in 2001, is a literary exploration that intertwines the lives of a contemporary novelist and the Enlightenment writer Denis Diderot. Set against the backdrop of October 1993, the narrative follows the novelist’s invitation to participate in the Diderot Project, where he encounters a diverse group of individuals, including an academic and a Swedish diplomat. The book spans 498 pages and is presented in English, offering readers a unique perspective on both the late 18th-century world and the modern academic landscape.
Readers will find that the book alternates between narratives, vividly recreating Diderot’s journey to Russia at the behest of Catherine the Great while simultaneously reflecting on the intellectual climate of the 20th century. Through this dual lens, Bradbury delves into themes of literature and the exchange of ideas, providing insight into the life and influence of Diderot. This edition invites readers to engage with the complexities of thought and creativity, making it a noteworthy addition to the realm of literature and fiction.
Official synopsis Publisher
In October 1993, a novelist is invited to go to Stockholm and Russia to take part in what is enigmatically referred to as the Diderot Project. In Stockholm he is joined by various other members of the project-including an academic, a lustful opera singer, and a Swedish diplomat. On the journey to Russia more is revealed about the great Enlightenment writer Denis Diderot-the son of a knife maker in Langres, who went to Paris and compiled the Encyclopedia, a book that changed the world.
In alternating narratives, Bradbury brilliantly recreates the climate of the eighteenth century-as Diderot journeys to Russia at the behest of Catherine the Great for discussions on the nature of the late-18th-century world-as well as the twentieth century academic milieu.
“An exuberant, enchanting literary valedictory.” (“Washington Times”)
“”To the Hermitage” reads like a love letter to the life of the mind from a man who, in his work as a writer, critic, academic and teacher has done much to contribute to the dizzying circulation of ideas.” (“The Independent on Sunday”)
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