The Wood Beyond the World

The Wood Beyond the World, first published in 1894, is a seminal work in the fantasy genre and is considered one of the earliest examples of modern fantasy literature. The story follows Walter, a young man who embarks on a journey that leads him to a mysterious and magical land beyond the world he knows.
Walter encounters various fantastical beings, including the enigmatic Lady and the Maid, and becomes embroiled in their conflicts and schemes. The novel is notable for its richly detailed setting, Morris's use of archaic language, and its influence on later fantasy writers, including J.R.R. Tolkien.
The Wood Beyond the World is praised for its imaginative storytelling and its blend of medieval romance with elements of myth and legend.

William Morris (1834 - 1896) was an English textile designer, poet, novelist, translator, and socialist activist. Associated with the British Arts and Crafts Movement, he was a major contributor to the revival of traditional British textile arts and methods of production. His literary contributions helped to establish the modern fantasy genre, while he played a significant role in propagating the early socialist movement in Britain.