Subject
English prose literature -- Early modern, 1500-1700 Books
Best books
John Milton
An Introduction to the Prose and Poetical Works of John Milton Comprising All the Autobiographic Passages in His Works, the More Explicit Presentations of His Ideas of True Liberty.
"An Introduction to the Prose and Poetical Works of John Milton" by Hiram Corson is a critical collection that explores the life and writings of the famous 17th-century English poet and political writer. The book is set in the late 19th century and aims to present Milton's autobiographical passages alongside thematic analyses of his works, focusing on his views of true liberty as expressed through both prose and poetry. It provides insights into Milton's beliefs and motivations, drawing connections between his experiences and his literary contributions. The opening of this work outlines its purpose and structure, describing how it will gather autobiographical elements from Milton's writings alongside discussions of key themes such as liberty, truth, and individual integrity. Corson emphasizes the importance of Milton’s prose, which often advocates for civil and religious freedoms, and connects it to his renowned poetic works like "Paradise Lost." The text reflects on Milton's life, revealing his dedication to literature and social ideals, while also hinting at the political and personal struggles that influenced his creative journey. By presenting this context, Corson sets the stage for a comprehensive understanding of Milton's contributions to English literature and thought.
John Awdelay
Awdeley's Fraternitye of Vacabondes, Harman's Caueat, Haben's Sermon, &c.
"Awdeley's Fraternitye of Vacabondes, Harman's Caueat, Haben's Sermon, &c." edited by Edward Viles and Frederick James Furnivall is a historical collection of tracts composed in the 16th century. This compilation includes works by John Awdeley, Thomas Harman, and Parson Haben, addressing the lives, practices, and social commentary related to vagabonds and thieves in Elizabethan England. The texts offer a fascinating glimpse into the criminal underbelly of society during this period, presenting character sketches of various types of rogues, their languages, and the societal perceptions of these groups. The opening of the work introduces the context and purpose behind the inclusion of these tracts, focusing on Awdeley’s "Fraternitye of Vacabondes", which describes the various orders of rogues and beggars, along with their names and dishonest practices. It notes the interest in such subjects during the era and highlights how these documents serve as both cautionary tales and social commentary. The gathered illustrations of the vagabond life provide a mixture of dire warnings and irreverent humor, setting the tone for the exploration of societal attitudes toward crime and poverty in early modern England.
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