The name "Rebecca West" is spelled as /rəˈbɛkə/ /wɛst/. The first syllable of Rebecca is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by a stressed "be" sound and a short "kuh" sound. The surname West is pronounced with a short "weh" sound followed by a "ssst" sound. Rebecca West was a British author, journalist, and literary critic who lived from 1892 to 1983. She was known for her contributions to feminist literature and for her work as a war correspondent during World War II.
Rebecca West refers to the pseudonym adopted by Cicely Isabel Fairfield (1892-1983), a British author, journalist, and critic. She is widely recognized as one of the foremost and influential writers of the 20th century.
With a remarkable literary output covering various genres such as novels, nonfiction, travelogues, and critical essays, Rebecca West's work encompasses a wide range of subjects from feminism and politics to war and religion. Her writing style is often characterized by its intellectual rigor, incisive analysis, and fearless exploration of complex themes.
Rebecca West's most renowned novel is "The Return of the Soldier" (1918) which reflects upon the psychological impact of World War I on individuals. She also achieved critical acclaim for her magnum opus, a historical account titled "Black Lamb and Grey Falcon" (1941) which explores the history, culture, and politics of Yugoslavia.
As a journalist and critic, West contributed to esteemed publications such as The New Republic, The Observer, and The Daily Telegraph where her incisive commentary on contemporary political and social issues garnered widespread attention. She was known for her fearless pursuit of truth, her sharp insights, and her unwavering commitment to defending human rights and feminist ideals.
Throughout her career, Rebecca West used her powerful voice to challenge societal norms and advocate for social justice. Her contributions to literature and journalism continue to inspire and influence scholars, writers, and readers alike.
The name "Rebecca" is of Hebrew origin and is derived from the Hebrew name Rivkah, meaning "to bind, to tie, to join". It is primarily known from the Biblical character Rebecca, who was the wife of Isaac and the mother of Jacob and Esau in the Book of Genesis.
"West" is an English surname that comes from the Old English word "west", meaning "west". It was originally used to describe someone who lived to the west of a particular place or came from the west side of a village or town.
In the context of "Rebecca West", it is important to note that this is the pen name of the British author and journalist Cicely Isabel Fairfield, who chose the name for herself.