Stapleton Martin
Anna Seward, and Classic Lichfield
"Anna Seward, and Classic Lichfield" by Stapleton Martin is a biography written in the early 20th century, specifically in the early 1900s. This book is centered around the life and legacy of Anna Seward, a prominent poetess known as "The Swan of Lichfield," and it aims to rekindle interest in her contributions to British literature. The text reflects on her social and literary milieu in Lichfield, detailing her relationships and interactions with notable contemporaries, including Dr. Samuel Johnson and Dr. Erasmus Darwin. The biography delves into Anna Seward's personal life, her literary achievements, and her impact on the Lichfield literary scene during the 18th century. It discusses her early life growing up in Lichfield, her eloquent poetry, her friendships, and the tragedies she faced, including the loss of loved ones such as her sister Honora. The book also highlights instances of her correspondence with other literary figures and captures her distinctive voice, character, and opinions about poetry and society. Through vivid anecdotes and assessments of her works, the biography not only celebrates Seward's contributions but also sets her within the broader context of British literary history.