English Poets

Britain in Pictures #1

by David Cecil

Part of the Writers' Britain series, first published in the 1940s, this work argues that poetry, of all the arts, is the chosen artistic expression of the nation. It surveys the English poets and their legacy, from Chaucer to the War Poets.

Genres: Poetry, Literature, Classics

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1942

Reviews

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very short book surveying English poetry from Chaucer to T.S. Eliot. With Cecil as the author, it goes without saying that the book is elegantly written, entertaining and thoughtful. The book itself is historically interesting, it was published during World War II, one of a large series of short works celebrating English life and culture and no doubt intended to lift British national spirits. As a result, the book is somewhat rose-tinted and patriotic. But God knows, who could deny them that comfort in those dreadful times?

[Bohemian Book Lover · Rating 3 out of 5]

*"The Italians are famous for their painting, the Germans for their music, the Russians for their novels.
*England is distinguished for her
*poets." This is what the opening words of this short but concise book on the history & prominence of English poetry & poets claim. Whether you agree with them or not, you cannot deny that England has produced world-renowned poetic works, from Shakespeare's plays & sonnets, to Milton's supernatural/religious epic, & the poetry of its Romantics. I appreciated the eloquent erudition & the swift study & insight I got into each phase of English poetry. Sadly it only goes up to WW1, but it succeeds in offering a good, well-covered introduction to the history of England's most prominent form of art.