The Oxford Book of English Verse, 1250-1900

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

66619

Title

The Oxford Book of English Verse, 1250-1900

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Arthur Quiller-Couch's definitive anthology spans English verse from the 13th to the late 19th century, curating lyrical and epigrammatic works by Chaucer, Shakespeare, Milton, and Yeats. With careful textual editing and a focus on emotional resonance over mere historical record, this collection offers an accessible yet profound journey through the evolution of English poetry.

Summary up to 500 words

Arthur Quiller-Couch's *The Oxford Book of English Verse, 1250-1900* offers a sweeping panorama of poetic achievement, tracing the evolution of the art form from the Thirteenth Century to the close of the Nineteenth. Arranged chronologically, the anthology balances major canonical figures with lesser-known poets, ensuring a comprehensive view of the era's literary landscape. Quiller-Couch introduces the volume with a preface explaining his editorial philosophy: he seeks to choose 'the best' while acknowledging that anthologies inevitably repeat themes. He deliberately groups anonymous ballads in the 17th century and modernizes spelling for accessibility, except for Spenser and Milton. The collection includes works from diverse voices, from medieval anonymous lyrics to contemporary poets like Tennyson and Yeats. The text features iconic pieces such as Samuel Taylor Coleridge's 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,' where a sailor's killing of an albatross leads to supernatural torment and eventual redemption through love for all living things. It also includes Percy Bysshe Shelley's 'Ode to the West Wind' and John Keats's 'To Autumn.' The anthology balances major canonical figures with lesser-known poets, ensuring a comprehensive view of the era's literary landscape. Quiller-Couch excises weak stanzas and prefers beautiful readings over strictly accurate ones, prioritizing aesthetic impact. The book serves both as a historical document and a curated experience for readers seeking inspiration, consolation, or deep appreciation of English lyrical tradition.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Poetry