Author
William Michael Rossetti
1829-1919
William Michael Rossetti (1829-1919) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by William Michael Rossetti
Life of John Keats
"Life of John Keats" by William Michael Rossetti is a biographical account written in the late 19th century. The narrative focuses on the life and works of the renowned Romantic poet John Keats, exploring his early years, literary development, relationships, and ultimately his tragic early death. The book delves into how Keats's personal experiences shaped his poetic voice and examines the impact of his work on English literature. The opening of "Life of John Keats" introduces readers to Keats's background, outlining his modest origins and the challenges he faced growing up as the child of unremarkable but loving parents. It details his education and inclinations toward literature, revealing pivotal moments such as the death of his parents that profoundly affected him. Furthermore, Keats's early aspirations in surgery are presented before his eventual shift to poetry, influenced by key literary figures and friendships, setting the stage for an exploration of his emotional depth and poetic genius. This section establishes the basis for understanding Keats's character, ambition, and the catalysts that would ultimately shape his brief but impactful life.
Notes on the Royal Academy Exhibition, 1868
"Notes on the Royal Academy Exhibition, 1868" by Wm. Michael Rossetti and Algernon C. Swinburne is a critical examination of art exhibitions, specifically focusing on the Royal Academy events, written in the mid-19th century. This work merges commentary with personal impressions of the exhibited artworks, reflecting on the trends and qualities in the art of the period. The topics generally cover critiques of individual pieces and broader observations on the evolution of British painting, touching upon the impacts of Præraphaelitism and changes in artistic standards. At the start of this compilation, Rossetti introduces the premise that each piece of art offers its unique narrative and perspective, underscoring the subjective nature of art criticism. He candidly addresses potential criticisms he anticipates for his opinions and intentions in reviewing the works displayed. The opening portion features thoughts on various artists and paintings, emphasizing a critical lens through which the changes in style and substance of the Royal Academy's exhibition are evaluated. Rossetti discusses the current state of British art, pointing out the balance between technical skill and artistic depth, which sets the tone for the critiques and insights to come.