A history of English poetry : $b an unpublished continuation

by Thomas Warton

"A History of English Poetry: an Unpublished Continuation" by Thomas Warton is a scholarly historical account likely written during the late 18th century. This work serves as a continuation of Warton's earlier history of English poetry, focusing particularly on the Elizabethan literary scene, including sonnets and satire. The book offers critical analysis and historical context for various poets and their contributions, aiming to fill gaps in the existing records of English poetic evolution. The content of this continuation delves into the world of Elizabethan poetry, notably the sonnet form and its various practitioners. Warton examines influential authors like Samuel Daniel, Spenser, and Shakespeare, discussing their styles and the cultural significance of their works. He provides insights into the evolution of the sonnet, noting the contributions from both English and Italian poets, while also addressing the scholarly shortcomings in the previous historical accounts. The text is rich with references and critiques, presenting a detailed narrative of the poetic landscape of the time, thus contributing significantly to the understanding of English literary history.