Subject
English poetry -- History and criticism Books
Best books
Myra Reynolds
The treatment of nature in English poetry between Pope and Wordsworth
No description available.
Elizabeth Atkins
The Poet's Poet : essays on the character and mission of the poet as interpreted in English verse of the last one hundred and fifty years
"The Poet's Poet: Essays on the Character and Mission of the Poet" by Elizabeth Atkins is a collection of essays that contemplates the self-perception and societal roles of poets in English verse over the last one hundred and fifty years, likely written in the early 20th century. The core topic concerns the introspective revelations and aesthetic philosophies voiced by the poets themselves regarding their personal identities and artistic missions, attempting to find unity in their varied perspectives while acknowledging contradictions in their notions of poetic character. The opening of the text sets the stage for a critical examination of the poet's dilemma regarding self-awareness and self-importance. Atkins argues that while poets seek to transcend their own egos and reveal a higher truth through their work, many of them inadvertently center their poetry on themselves, leading to an "egocentric circle" that hinders their artistic expression. This paradox prompts a deeper discussion on the responsibilities and failures of poets to communicate profound truths without revealing too much of their individual selves, illustrating the tension between personal identity and the ideals of poetic creativity.
J. (Jakob) Schipper
A History of English Versification
"A History of English Versification" by J. Schipper is a scholarly publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the rhythmic and structural characteristics of English poetry, tracing its development and the principles governing its versification over time. It serves as a comprehensive exploration of metre, rhyme, and stanza arrangement in English literature. The opening of the text sets the stage for a detailed examination of the science of English metre, emphasizing its significance in understanding both the historical evolution of the language and the aesthetics of poetry. Schipper elucidates the foundational concepts of verse structure, including the distinction between prose and poetry, and the rhythmic elements that constitute poetic form. He discusses the importance of accent, the nature of syllables, and the formal characteristics that define various types of verse, laying the groundwork for a thorough analysis that will follow in subsequent chapters.
Matthew Arnold
Essays in criticism : $b First and second series complete
No description available.
Robert Graves
On English poetry : $b being an irregular approach to the psychology of this art, from evidence mainly subjective
"On English Poetry" by Robert Graves is a literary critique written in the early 20th century, specifically looking at the nature and psychology of poetry. The book explores the complex relationship between spontaneity and craft in poetic creation, while also delving into how poetry operates as both an art form and an expression of the poet's emotional and psychological conflicts. At the start of the work, Graves presents his thoughts on poetry and its dual nature. He distinguishes between poetry that arises spontaneously from the subconscious and poetry that is crafted with conscious intention, discussing how both aspects are integral to the poetic process. He uses engaging metaphors to illustrate the inner workings of a poet's mind and explains the importance of emotional conflict in the creation of true poetry, setting the tone for a deeper exploration of poetic theory throughout the text. Overall, Graves aims to dissect and understand the enigmatic qualities of poetry while acknowledging its profound impact on human emotion and expression.
William Hazlitt
Lectures on the English Poets; Delivered at the Surrey Institution
"Lectures on the English Poets; Delivered at the Surrey Institution" by William Hazlitt is a collection of critical lectures focused on English poetry, likely written in the early 19th century. The work serves as an exploration of the nature of poetry, its emotional resonance, and its various manifestations through notable poets from Chaucer to contemporary writers of Hazlitt's time. Through its series of lectures, the author delves into the profound impact of poetry on human experience, creating a dialogue that seeks to elevate the genre beyond mere amusement. The beginning of this work introduces the notion of poetry as an intrinsic expression of human emotions and the imagination. Hazlitt emphasizes that poetry reflects the profound connections people have with nature and their inner lives, transcending rigid forms and conventions. He argues that all feelings—whether love, despair, or admiration—are poetic in nature, illustrating his claims by referencing historical and literary figures. He sets the stage for an in-depth analysis of individual poets and their works, presenting his foundational ideas regarding the essence of poetry, which resonates with the experiences of all people and, by extension, all poets.
George Puttenham
The Arte of English Poesie
"The Arte of English Poesie" by George Puttenham is a treatise on the principles of poetry written in the late 16th century. This work explores the nature and purpose of poetry, defining the roles of poets and the various forms of poetic expression, while also arguing for the legitimacy of English poetry in the same regard as Latin and Greek poetry. Puttenham seeks to establish poetry as a noble art, essential for civil society and moral instruction. At the start of the text, the author introduces the concept of a poet as a "maker" and discusses the divine qualities imbued in the art of poetry, asserting that it encompasses both creation and imitation. He emphasizes the historical significance of poets as foundational figures in early civilizations, claiming they were the first priests, legislators, and philosophers. There is a clear call to recognize poetry as both an art form with rules and regulations and a vital vehicle for moral instruction, reflective of cultural values and human experience. Through rich examples, he sets the stage for a deeper examination of poetic forms, their functions, and their historical evolution.
James Russell Lowell
Lectures on English poets
"Lectures on English Poets" by James Russell Lowell is a collection of scholarly lectures on poetry written in the late 19th century. The work analyzes key figures in English poetry and the qualities that define their contributions, reflecting on the rich literary tradition of England. It likely covers a range of poets, with Lowell's unique insights blending historical context, personal anecdotes, and critical observation, making it a valuable text for readers interested in literary analysis. The opening of the book sets the stage for Lowell's exploration of English poetry, outlining his qualifications and the context of his lectures at the Lowell Institute. He acknowledges the challenge of discussing poetry, noting that it transcends mere understanding and requires a deep emotional response. Lowell introduces themes such as the imaginative and emotional depth of poetry, the poetic faculty versus mere literary ability, and the inherent beauty and power of poetic expression. As he begins his first lecture, he emphasizes that poetry captures feelings and insights that enrich the human experience, thus challenging the audience to engage with the deeper meanings behind the works of the poets he will discuss.
Thomas Warton
A history of English poetry : $b an unpublished continuation
"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.
Edmund Gosse
The Future of English Poetry
"The Future of English Poetry" by Edmund Gosse is a philosophical examination written in the early 20th century. This work takes the form of a discourse or essay, analyzing the trajectory and potential developments of English poetry over the coming century. Gosse delves into the intrinsic nature and ongoing relevance of poetry, positing that it remains a dynamic and undying art form capable of evolution amidst shifting cultural landscapes. In this treatise, Gosse articulates various complexities faced by English poetry, including the struggle for originality in a saturated linguistic environment and the challenge of embracing new themes beyond traditional lyrical expressions. He anticipates a movement toward symbolic and intricate expressions, albeit at the risk of sacrificing directness and accessibility. Moreover, Gosse speculates that future poets will increasingly focus on personal introspection, emotional depth, and dramatization of life experiences while wrestling with the impulses imposed by society. Overall, the essay inspires contemplation about the resilience of poetry and its ability to adapt, even as it grapples with conventions and the expectations of both contemporary and future audiences.
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