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H. Rider Haggard, born Henry Rider Haggard on June 22, 1856, in Bradenham, Norfolk, was an English writer who pioneered the Lost World literary genre. His narratives, often set in exotic locations and entwined with elements of adventure and romance, captivated the imagination of the Victorian public. Haggard's career as a novelist commenced with 'The Witch's Head' (1884) but his fame was secured with the publication of 'King Solomon's Mines' in 1885. This wildly popular novel introduced readers to the character Allan Quatermain, an enduring figure in Haggard's work, including 'A Tale of Three Lions', which further showcases Quatermain's adventures in the African wilderness. Haggard's vivid storytelling and the inclusion of supernatural elements in his works, such as in the celebrated 'She: A History of Adventure' (1886), contributed substantially to the formation of fantasy literature. As a writer, Haggard was influenced by his experiences in South Africa, where he developed an appreciation of the continent's landscape and cultures, which he skillfully integrated into his narrative fabric. Haggard, a prolific author, wrote over 50 novels and numerous short stories. His literary style combined social commentary with a profound sense of adventure, taking readers to realms beyond the familiar. Haggard passed away on May 14, 1925, but his legacy endures through his evocative works that continue to inspire modern literature and film. His contributions to the adventure and fantasy genres remain seminal, reverberating through the oeuvre of countless subsequent storytellers. |