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Poetry -- History and criticism Books
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Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 7 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 7" by Richard Hurd is a collection of theological writings and sermons authored in the late 18th century. This volume primarily consists of sermons preached at Lincoln's Inn between 1765 and 1776, exploring themes of morality, faith, and the nature of God. Hurd’s works aim to provide insight into Christian doctrine, morality, and the human condition in relation to divinity. The opening of this volume presents a detailed discussion of Felix, a Roman governor from the Book of Acts, highlighting a sermon in which the author addresses themes of procrastination and moral accountability. Hurd reflects on Felix's encounter with the Apostle Paul, illustrating how Felix's indecision and desire to postpone repentance led to spiritual stagnation. He draws parallels to contemporary listeners, encouraging self-reflection and immediate action in their spiritual lives, emphasizing the danger of delaying necessary repentance despite the clear call to change. The sermon serves both as a historical analysis and a moral exhortation, inviting readers to consider their own tendencies toward procrastination in matters of faith.
Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 5 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 5 (of 8)" by Richard Hurd is a collection of theological writings likely prepared in the early 19th century. The volume features sermons that delve into the study of prophecies within the context of Christianity, exploring their significance, interpretation, and fulfillment as fundamental components of the faith. The text serves as a critical examination of the prophetic scriptures and aims to validate their divine origins and related theological concepts, focusing on their implications for understanding revealed religion. The opening of this volume introduces the first sermon, which outlines the importance of approaching scriptural prophecies with a mindset free from personal biases and preconceptions. Hurd argues that the true essence and purpose of prophecy, as described in both the Old and New Testaments, is to affirm the divine character and mission of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that prophecies are expressions of divine will, meant to guide believers in understanding God's overarching plan and the inherent significance of the prophecies related to Christ's life and mission. This philosophical foundation sets the stage for an exploration of how prophetic writings serve as a reliable testimony of Christianity and the nature of divine revelation.
Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 1 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 1" by Richard Hurd is a collection of critical essays and commentaries written in the early 19th century. This volume focuses on the ancient poet Horace’s epistles, particularly the "Epistle to the Pisos," providing both an English commentary and critical dissertations on poetry. Hurd approaches his work with an intent to clarify the often convoluted interpretations of Horace's texts, offering a detailed exploration of poetic forms and metrics. At the start of the volume, Hurd reflects on his own educational journey, narrating details of his upbringing and academic progression, which sets the stage for his authority as a commentator. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the unity and method in poetics, critiquing previous interpretations that misconstrued Horace's intentions. Hurd lays the groundwork for his analysis by discussing poetic license, unity of subject, and the balance between innovation and tradition in poetic expression while providing insight into Horace's artistic methodology, thereby crafting a foundation for his subsequent explorations of Horace's writings.
Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 6 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 6" by Richard Hurd is a collection of theological writings and sermons written in the early 19th century. This volume presents sermons delivered by Hurd at Lincoln's Inn during the years 1765 to 1776, reflecting on various biblical passages and their implications for understanding Christian doctrine and morality. Hurd, as a respected theologian and Bishop of Worcester, discusses themes such as the nature of salvation, the importance of moral law, and the role of faith in the Christian life. The opening of this volume sets the stage for exploring critical reflections on the role of ministers in the Christian faith, emphasizing their responsibility to teach both old and new truths for the benefit of their congregations. It begins with a sermon based on a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, connecting the historical context of the Jewish household with the responsibilities of Christian teachers. Hurd asserts that preachers must be prepared to address the needs of their listeners, drawing from a well of knowledge to provide spiritual guidance. This introduction hints at the depth of theological inquiry that characterizes the rest of the volume, which seeks to clarify and elucidate essential beliefs for both the clergy and laypeople alike.
Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 3 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 3" by Richard Hurd is a collection of philosophical dialogues and letters written in the early 19th century. This volume includes discussions on topics such as sincerity, retirement, and the historical context of Queen Elizabeth's reigne, featuring notable figures like Dr. Henry More and Edmund Waller. The opening of the volume begins with a preface that discusses the nature of writing dialogues, emphasizing a return to the ancient tradition of philosophical conversation. Hurd articulates the importance of sincerity and its place in human interaction, introducing a dialogue between Dr. More and Mr. Waller where they debate the practicality of sincerity in personal and societal dealings. Waller expresses skepticism about the possibility of absolute sincerity in the complex world of politics and personal relationships, setting the stage for further exploration of the themes of honesty and moral conduct throughout the volume.
Donald Lemen Clark
Rhetoric and Poetry in the Renaissance A Study of Rhetorical Terms in English Renaissance Literary Criticism
"Rhetoric and Poetry in the Renaissance" by Donald Lemen Clark is a scholarly study of literary criticism and its development during the English Renaissance, likely written in the early 20th century. The book examines the influence of classical rhetoric on the understanding of poetry, particularly from the mid-16th to the early 17th century, emphasizing the terminology and theoretical frameworks employed by critics of the time. The opening portion presents a well-structured introduction to the study, outlining the author's aim to explore how classical rhetorical terms and ideas shaped English criticism of poetry. Clark plans to divide his exploration into two main parts: the general theory of rhetoric and poetry, and the purposes of poetry as understood during the Renaissance. He highlights the historical context, indicating that English critics borrowed from both classical and medieval traditions, and emphasizes the importance of rhetorical thinking that persisted throughout that period. The section also acknowledges the contributions of previous scholars while asserting the necessity to address the influences on English criticism that have been overlooked, particularly the profound impact of medieval rhetorical traditions.
Antoine Fabre d'Olivet
The golden verses of Pythagoras
"The Golden Verses of Pythagoras" by Antoine Fabre d'Olivet is a philosophical work that delves into the moral and spiritual teachings attributed to the ancient philosopher Pythagoras, likely written in the early 19th century. This text also includes Fabre d'Olivet's interpretations and translations, focusing on the essence and structure of poetry and how they relate to the wisdom of Pythagorean doctrine. The exploration of ancient wisdom and the relationship between poetry and divine understanding form the core of its content. The opening of the book presents a foreword by the translator, Nayán Louise Redfield, which reflects on Fabre d'Olivet's scholarly life and the context in which he engaged with Pythagorean teachings. It establishes the significance of Pythagoras's "Golden Verses" as a moral guide and touches upon the allegorical nature of poetry, as interpreted by both Fabre d’Olivet and Plato. As it introduces the author's intention to explore the essence of poetry and its spiritual implications, the text sets the stage for a deeper examination of philosophical ideas intertwined with poetic expressions, emphasizing the pursuit of wisdom through understanding.
Lafcadio Hearn
Books and Habits, from the Lectures of Lafcadio Hearn
"Books and Habits, from the Lectures of Lafcadio Hearn" by Lafcadio Hearn is a collection of essays and lectures written in the early 20th century. The book primarily focuses on Hearn's interpretations of literature, particularly Western literature, as he presents it to Japanese students, aiming to bridge understanding between Eastern and Western literary traditions. Through his insightful analysis, Hearn explores complex themes such as the portrayal of women in literature and the nuances of love as depicted in English poetry. The opening of the book introduces Hearn's central challenge in effectively communicating the intricacies of Western civilization, particularly regarding the relationship between gender dynamics and literary representation. He articulates the profound challenges that arise when Japanese students attempt to grasp the notion of women as divinely revered in the West, emphasizing the significant cultural differences in viewpoints on love, honor, and duty. Hearn points out that while the idealization of women is pervasive in Western literature, it often manifests through frustrating contradictions in real-life relationships, leading to a rich yet complex field for literary exploration. This initial chapter sets the stage for Hearn's examination of various literary themes, as he navigates the interwoven cultural perceptions that shape the experience of literature.
Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 2 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 2" by Richard Hurd is a collection of critical essays written in the early 19th century. This volume contains an examination of poetry and drama, specifically analyzing the nature of universal poetry, its characteristics, and its various forms, including tragedy and comedy. Hurd's work aims to articulate the principles of poetic art and the roles of different genres within literature. The opening of this volume begins with a dissertation on the idea of universal poetry. Richard Hurd articulates that poetry is fundamentally an art form aimed at pleasure, distinguishing it from other literary forms where utility often takes precedence. He discusses how poetry should utilize figurative language and composition that engages the mind's desires. Additionally, Hurd sets the groundwork for understanding the significance of style and fiction in poetry, emphasizing the importance of pleasing the audience through both sound and imagery, which he considers essential to the poetic experience. His reflections indicate a thoughtful approach to the philosophical underpinnings of poetry, preparing the reader for deeper analyses in subsequent sections.
C. H. (Charles Harold) Herford
Shakespeare's treatment of love & marriage, and other essays
"Shakespeare's Treatment of Love & Marriage, and Other Essays" by C. H. Herford is a collection of literary essays written in the early 20th century. The book examines Shakespeare's portrayal of love and marriage as a central theme in his works, delving into how his characters reflect ideals of romantic relationships. The text seeks to explore the complexities and nuances of love in Shakespeare's comedies and tragedies while also discussing the influence of various factors on poetic creation. The opening portion introduces the reader to the overarching themes of love and marriage in Shakespeare's plays. Herford emphasizes that Shakespeare displays a preference for "normal" love relationships characterized by a balance of passion, intellect, and morality. He argues that Shakespeare's ideal form of love is one that naturally leads to marriage, contrasting this view with other types of love that can have tragic or comic implications. The essay sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Shakespeare’s characters and their relationships, highlighting the joyful and healthy aspects of love, while hinting at the dramas that arise from misunderstandings and external conflicts that challenge these ideals.
John Campbell Shairp
On poetic interpretation of nature
"On Poetic Interpretation of Nature" by John Campbell Shairp is a philosophical work written in the late 19th century. The book explores the relationship between human imagination and the natural world, emphasizing how poetry serves to express the profound beauty and truths found in nature. It seeks to highlight that the understanding of nature is not wholly confined to scientific explanations but also encompasses deeper emotional and aesthetic experiences that only poetry can articulate. The opening of the work introduces the author's intent, outlining the origins of the book as a series of lectures aimed at a general audience, particularly the youth. Shairp discusses the importance of acknowledging both the contributions of physical sciences and the emotional, imaginative responses of humanity to the natural world. He posits that while science can explain various phenomena, it is poetry that truly captures the essence of beauty in nature and the profound connection it has with the human spirit. By exploring this idea, Shairp invites readers to appreciate nature not just as a scientific subject, but as an emotional and poetic experience, one that enriches our understanding of existence itself.
Richard Hurd
The works of Richard Hurd, volume 8 (of 8)
"The Works of Richard Hurd, Volume 8" by Richard Hurd is a collection of theological works, including sermons and charges to the clergy, written in the late 18th to early 19th century. This volume serves as a reflection on Hurd's pastoral duties and religious themes, including liberty, moral conduct, and the importance of faith. The opening portion introduces the context of Hurd's sermons, emphasizing the necessity of humility and repentance in light of national distress, particularly regarding the American rebellion of 1776. The speaker addresses the clergy and the public, urging them to reflect on their moral failings and the need for spiritual renewal. Hurd frames his discourse around the idea of divine judgment, urging a collective return to faith and proper conduct in order to restore order and harmony within society, while highlighting the role of divine authority throughout this theme.
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