The Collector

Historical Context and Significance

«The Collector» is the debut novel by English writer John Fowles, first published in 1963. This work had a significant impact on the development of the psychological thriller and the study of antisocial personalities in literature. The novel tells the story of Frederick Clegg, a clerk and butterfly collector, who kidnaps young art student Miranda Grey. Through a dual narrative perspective—Frederick's viewpoint and Miranda's diary entries—Fowles explores themes of obsession, isolation, power, and understanding. «The Collector» became a cult classic, sparking extensive discussions about the relationship between violence and culture, and influenced the creation of horror and thriller subgenres centered around abduction. The book was adapted into a film in 1965, further cementing its status in popular culture.