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Lamb, Charles, 1775-1834 Books
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Charles Lamb
The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb — Volume 6 Letters 1821-1842
"The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb — Volume 6" by Charles Lamb and Mary Lamb is a collection of letters written between 1821 and 1842, with the majority penned by Charles Lamb, who was an influential English essayist and poet. This volume, likely crafted in the early 19th century, offers unique insights into the personal and literary lives of the Lamb siblings. The correspondences included reflect their friendships with notable figures of the time, such as Dorothy Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and showcase the wit, charm, and candidness of Charles Lamb's character. At the start of this volume, the letters reveal much about the daily lives and social circles of the Lambs. The opening letter to Dorothy Wordsworth discusses family matters, health issues, and humorous anecdotes about acquaintances in Cambridge, while simultaneously showcasing Lamb's warm and playful writing style. Subsequent letters touch upon various social gatherings, literary discussions, and personal reflections, giving readers a glimpse into Lamb's world—a blend of literary ambition, friendship, and the everyday struggles of life. The opening portion sets the tone for a delightful and engaging read for those interested in the Lambs, their relationships, and their contributions to English literature.
Charles Lamb
The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb — Volume 5 The Letters of Charles and Mary Lamb, 1796-1820
"The Works of Charles and Mary Lamb — Volume 5" by Charles Lamb and Mary Lamb is a correspondence collection written during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. This volume contains a series of letters exchanged between the Lamb siblings, capturing their thoughts and experiences over a span of several years, reflecting their literary endeavors and personal lives within the context of their times. The beginning of the volume opens with a detailed preface that outlines the significance of the collected letters, noting the total included in this edition and the challenges faced in securing copyright for the publication. Following the preface, the first letter dated May 27, 1796, is addressed to S.T. Coleridge, revealing intimate aspects of Lamb's life, including his financial matters, updates on friends, and his ongoing literary projects and aspirations. He expresses a sense of camaraderie, discusses societal observations, and shares a sonnet written for his sister, showcasing not only familial love but also the creative spirit that characterized Charles Lamb's correspondence. Throughout, the letters provide insight into the personal and literary world of the Lambs, while illustrating their close-knit bond as siblings and creative partners.
Walter Jerrold
Charles Lamb
"Charles Lamb" by Walter Jerrold is a biographical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life and literary contributions of the English essayist Charles Lamb, focusing particularly on his works and the personal experiences that shaped them. Through its narrative, readers can expect to gain insights into Lamb's character and the influences of his environment, particularly his beloved London. At the start of the biography, the text establishes the importance of reading Lamb's essays and letters to truly understand his life and personality. The opening chapters delve into his early years, detailing his upbringing in London, his education at Christ's Hospital, and the close bond with his sister Mary. It highlights the tragic events in their family, including the mental health struggles of Mary, which profoundly affected their lives. Through this initial exploration, readers begin to appreciate the interplay between Lamb's life experiences and his unique style of writing, marked by whimsicality and deep emotional resonance.
Benjamin Ellis Martin
In the Footprints of Charles Lamb
"In the Footprints of Charles Lamb" by Benjamin Ellis Martin is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the life and times of the English writer and essayist Charles Lamb, tracing his path through the streets of London where he lived and worked, and examining both his unique character and his contributions to literature. The opening of the book introduces readers to the author’s intent to create a topographical biography of Charles Lamb, highlighting Lamb's deep connection to London and its streets, and the historical locations associated with his life. Martin discusses how Lamb's homes have been preserved from destruction and describes the early environment of Lamb's youth, specifically his upbringing with his sister Mary in the Inner Temple. The text begins to explore the complexities of their relationship and the challenges they faced as a family, foreshadowing the themes of love, devotion, and the impact of mental health that will be examined throughout the book.
Barry Cornwall
Charles Lamb: A Memoir
"Charles Lamb: A Memoir" by Barry Cornwall is a biographical account written in the late 19th century that delves into the life and character of the English essayist and poet Charles Lamb. The memoir reflects Cornwall's personal recollections and admiration for Lamb, introducing readers to the essence of a man who was not only a crucial figure in the literary world but was also deeply devoted to his sister Mary, whose struggles with mental health defined much of his life. The memoir intends to illuminate Lamb's unique qualities of mind, humor, and compassion as well as his literary endeavors. The opening of the memoir sets the stage for an intimate portrayal of Charles Lamb, highlighting Cornwall's close relationship with him during the last years of his life. It emphasizes Lamb's heroic devotion to caring for his sister, whose mental illness shaped his days and profoundly affected his literary output. Cornwall reflects on Lamb's early life, his education at Christ's Hospital, and his eventual clerical work at the India House, which provided him the means to support his sister while he pursued writing. Through this, the memoir begins to cover the delicate interplay of personal calamity and literary genius, setting up a narrative that intertwines Lamb’s life events, his literary influences, and his friendships with renowned writers of his time, such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
Thomas De Quincey
Biographical Essays
"Biographical Essays" by Thomas De Quincey is a collection of critical essays produced in the early 19th century. This work examines the lives and influences of significant literary figures, initiating with an exploration of William Shakespeare, aimed at illuminating the complexities and contexts surrounding these historical icons. The opening of the essay focuses on William Shakespeare's life, discussing the scant details of his early years despite his monumental impact on literature. De Quincey reflects on the uncertainty surrounding the precise date and circumstances of Shakespeare's birth, introducing various theories regarding his time of baptism and the connection to his eventual fame. He further analyzes Shakespeare’s familial background, the challenges faced by his father, and the social dynamics of Stratford-upon-Avon, ultimately suggesting that these factors may have shaped Shakespeare's literary career. Through a blend of historical inquiry and literary critique, De Quincey's introductory exploration sets the tone for a deeper examination of Shakespeare's life and legacy.
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