E(dward) M(organ) (1879-1970) English novelist. He was concerned with the interplay of personality and the conflict between convention and instinct. His novels include A Room with a View 1908, Howards End 1910, and A Passage to India 1924. He also wrote short stories, for example ‘The Eternal Omnibus’ 1914; criticism, including Aspects of the Novel 1927; and essays, including Abinger Harvest 1936.
Forster published his first novel, Where Angels Fear to Tread, 1905. He enhances the superficial situations of his plots with unexpected insights in The Longest Journey 1907, A Room with a View, and Howards End. His many years spent in India and as secretary to the Maharajah of Dewas 1921 provided him with the material for A Passage to India, which explores the relationship between the English and the Indians. Maurice, published 1971, has a homosexual theme.

(1818-1886) British Liberal reformer. In Gladstone's government 1868–74 he was vice president of the council, and secured the passing of the Education Act 1870 and the Ballot Act 1872. He was chief secretary for Ireland 1880–82.