Subject
Poets, Irish -- Biography -- Early works to 1800 Books
Best books
Theophilus Cibber
The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume II.
"The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland" by Theophilus Cibber is a historical account written in the mid-18th century. This work, which forms part of a multi-volume collection, delves deeply into the lives and contributions of various poets from Great Britain and Ireland, documenting their careers, styles, and notable works. The opening of this volume begins with a note about its publication and the intention to compile the lives of various poets, showcasing the contributions of lesser-known figures, such as Anthony Brewer and Thomas May. Each poet is introduced with summaries of their works, influence, and context within their time, often highlighting their interactions with contemporaneous literary and political figures. For instance, the narrative recounts how Brewer's talent stemmed from the era of Charles I, detailing his various plays and the impact of his work, as well as including interesting anecdotes that connect these poets to historical events, like Oliver Cromwell’s performance in one of Brewer’s plays. Overall, the text reveals both the personal and artistic dimensions of each poet, setting the stage for a comprehensive exploration of their literary legacies.
Theophilus Cibber
The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume V.
"The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland" by Mr. Cibber is a historical account written during the mid-18th century. This volume serves as a biographical compilation detailing the lives and contributions of various poets from Britain and Ireland, notably focusing on figures like Eustace Budgell and Thomas Tickell. The text offers insight not only into the poets’ careers but also their personal lives and the sociopolitical contexts in which they operated. At the start of the book, the reader is introduced to Eustace Budgell, whose early life reflects the complexities of familial expectations and personal aspirations. Budgell’s journey begins with his aristocratic background, education at Christ's Church, Oxford, and subsequent friendship with the renowned poet Joseph Addison. The narrative unfolds to reveal Budgell's deviations from his father’s intentions for him to pursue a legal career, as he is drawn instead to literature and involvement with notable publications such as "The Tatler" and "The Spectator." Ultimately, the opening portion highlights his rise within literary circles, his fluctuating fortunes, and his poignant reflections on his ambitions, emphasizing themes of friendship, familial obligations, and the pursuit of artistic recognition amidst personal turmoil.
Theophilus Cibber
The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume I.
"The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland" by Theophilus Cibber is a historical account written in the mid-18th century. This extensive work serves as a biographical compilation of notable poets from Britain and Ireland, detailing their lives, works, and contributions to literature. The first volume includes significant figures such as Geoffrey Chaucer, William Langland, and Sir Thomas More, offering insights into their personal histories and the broader literary context of their times. At the start of this volume, Cibber introduces Geoffrey Chaucer, delving into the uncertainty surrounding his birthplace and lineage, while highlighting his education and early literary attempts. The opening recounts Chaucer's life journey, from his studies at the university to his rise at the royal court, showcasing his relationships with influential patrons. Cibber portrays Chaucer as a multifaceted individual—poet, courtier, and ambassador—while also hinting at the tumultuous shifts of fortune that characterized his later years. This introductory biographical sketch sets the tone for the detailed accounts to follow of other poets, interweaving personal anecdotes with critical analysis of their contributions to English poetry.
Theophilus Cibber
The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume III.
"The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland" by Cibber is a historical account probably written in the mid-18th century. This work serves as a comprehensive compendium of biographical sketches of significant poets from Great Britain and Ireland, including figures such as Sir John Denham, Thomas Killegrew, and Aphra Behn. The collection offers readers insights into their lives, works, and the socio-political context of their times, blending literary critique with history. At the start of this volume, Cibber introduces several poets, beginning with Sir John Denham, detailing his life from birth to death, his literary contributions, and his interactions with notable contemporaries. Denham's story highlights his academic beginnings, troubles with gambling, and emergence as a poet of renown with works like "Cooper's Hill." The narrative also covers the lives of other poets such as Killegrew and Behn, showcasing their works and characters while providing anecdotes that bring their personalities to life. This starting section sets the stage for an engaging exploration of the contributions and complexities of these literary figures within the broader canvas of English literature.
Theophilus Cibber
The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume IV.
"The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland" by Mr. Cibber is a biographical anthology written during the mid-18th century that explores the lives and works of various poets from Great Britain and Ireland. The book appears to offer a detailed account of the poets' contributions to literature, delving into their personal histories, societal contexts, and specific works, ultimately aiming to trace the development and significance of poetry during this time. At the start of the volume, the reader is introduced to the lives of several poets, beginning with Peter Motteux, a French gentleman who thrived in England as a translator and playwright. His contributions and tragic demise are recounted, setting the tone for a broader exploration of other poets, including Mrs. Manley, whose complex life story reflects the societal challenges faced by female writers in her time. The opening sections highlight the intersections between personal life, artistic expression, and the cultural milieu of the poets, illustrating how their experiences shaped their works and legacies. Each entry serves to both celebrate and critically assess their contributions to the literary landscape.
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