An Introduction to the Study of Browning By: Arthur Symons (1865-1945)
Arthur Symons' "An Introduction to the Study of Browning" is an insightful and comprehensive exploration of the life and works of one of the greatest poets of the Victorian era, Robert Browning. Symons, a renowned literary critic and poet himself, delivers a compelling analysis that is sure to captivate both seasoned Browning enthusiasts and newcomers to his poetry. The book begins by providing a succinct overview of Browning's life, weaving in the social, cultural, and historical context that influenced his poetic development. Symons delves into Browning's early years and his literary influences, shedding light on the formative experiences that shaped his unique style and themes. From there, he examines Browning's major works, placing them within the larger literary landscape of the time and offering valuable interpretations that enrich our understanding of these poems. What sets Symons' work apart is his ability to dissect Browning's complex and often dense poetry, making it accessible to readers of all backgrounds. With a keen attention to detail, Symons unpicks the intricate layers of Browning's language, symbolism, and imagery, providing illuminating explanations that open up new avenues of interpretation. He guides us through each poem, inviting us to appreciate Browning's mastery of form, narrative techniques, and his exploration of human psychology. Furthermore, Symons astutely recognizes the recurring themes and motifs in Browning's oeuvre, such as love, morality, and the nature of art. He dissects these themes, allowing readers to grasp the overarching philosophical questions that Browning grapples with throughout his works. Symons' profound analysis not only deepens our appreciation for Browning's poetry but also encourages us to contemplate our own existence and values. To complement his analysis, Symons includes selected excerpts from Browning's poems, giving readers a taste of the poet's lyrical brilliance. These carefully chosen passages highlight Browning's ability to capture raw human emotions and create vivid, engaging narratives. Additionally, Symons includes critical essays by other eminent scholars, offering diverse perspectives on Browning's work and contributing to a well-rounded understanding of his literary legacy. While "An Introduction to the Study of Browning" serves as an excellent starting point for readers seeking to explore Browning's poetry, it also caters to those already familiar with his works, providing fresh insights and interpretations. By combining biographical context, meticulous analysis, and thought-provoking commentary, Symons succeeds in creating an invaluable resource that will deepen anyone's appreciation for Robert Browning's artistry and literary contributions. First Page: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF BROWNING by ARTHUR SYMONS New Edition Revised and Enlarged First Edition, 1906. Reprinted, 1916 London, Paris and Toronto J. M. Dent & Sons Ltd. 10 13 Bedford Street, W.C. 1916 " ... Browning, a great poet, a very great poet indeed, as the world will have to agree with us in thinking." LANDOR. TO GEORGE MEREDITH NOVELIST AND POET THIS LITTLE BOOK ON AN ILLUSTRIOUS CONTEMPORARY IS WITH DEEP RESPECT AND ADMIRATION INSCRIBED. PREFACE This Introduction to the Study of Browning , which is now reprinted in a new form, revised throughout, and with everything relating to facts carefully brought up to date, has been for many years out of print. I wrote it as an act of homage to the poet whom I had worshipped from my boyhood; I meant it to be, in almost his own words, used of Shelley, some approach to "the signal service it was the dream of my boyhood to render to his fame and memory." It was sufficiently rewarded by three things: first, by the generous praise of Walter Pater, in the Guardian , which led to the beginning of my friendship with him; then, by a single sentence from George Meredith, "You have done knightly service to a brave leader"; lastly, by a letter from Browning himself, in which he said: "How can I manage even to thank much more praise what, in its generosity of appreciation, makes the poorest recognition 'come too near the praising of myself'?" I repeat these things now, because they seem to justify me in dragging back into sight a book written when I was very young, and, as I am only too conscious, lacking in many of the qualities which I have since acquired or developed... Continue reading book >>

An Introduction to the Study of Browning By: Arthur Symons (1865-1945)

Arthur Symons' "An Introduction to the Study of Browning" is an insightful and comprehensive exploration of the life and works of one of the greatest poets of the Victorian era, Robert Browning. Symons, a renowned literary critic and poet himself, delivers a compelling analysis that is sure to captivate both seasoned Browning enthusiasts and newcomers to his poetry.

The book begins by providing a succinct overview of Browning's life, weaving in the social, cultural, and historical context that influenced his poetic development. Symons delves into Browning's early years and his literary influences, shedding light on the formative experiences that shaped his unique style and themes. From there, he examines Browning's major works, placing them within the larger literary landscape of the time and offering valuable interpretations that enrich our understanding of these poems.

What sets Symons' work apart is his ability to dissect Browning's complex and often dense poetry, making it accessible to readers of all backgrounds. With a keen attention to detail, Symons unpicks the intricate layers of Browning's language, symbolism, and imagery, providing illuminating explanations that open up new avenues of interpretation. He guides us through each poem, inviting us to appreciate Browning's mastery of form, narrative techniques, and his exploration of human psychology.

Furthermore, Symons astutely recognizes the recurring themes and motifs in Browning's oeuvre, such as love, morality, and the nature of art. He dissects these themes, allowing readers to grasp the overarching philosophical questions that Browning grapples with throughout his works. Symons' profound analysis not only deepens our appreciation for Browning's poetry but also encourages us to contemplate our own existence and values.

To complement his analysis, Symons includes selected excerpts from Browning's poems, giving readers a taste of the poet's lyrical brilliance. These carefully chosen passages highlight Browning's ability to capture raw human emotions and create vivid, engaging narratives. Additionally, Symons includes critical essays by other eminent scholars, offering diverse perspectives on Browning's work and contributing to a well-rounded understanding of his literary legacy.

While "An Introduction to the Study of Browning" serves as an excellent starting point for readers seeking to explore Browning's poetry, it also caters to those already familiar with his works, providing fresh insights and interpretations. By combining biographical context, meticulous analysis, and thought-provoking commentary, Symons succeeds in creating an invaluable resource that will deepen anyone's appreciation for Robert Browning's artistry and literary contributions.

First Page:

AN INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY OF BROWNING

ARTHUR SYMONS

New Edition Revised and Enlarged

First Edition, 1906. Reprinted, 1916 London, Paris and Toronto J. M. Dent & Sons Ltd. 10 13 Bedford Street, W.C. 1916

" ... Browning, a great poet, a very great poet indeed, as the world will have to agree with us in thinking." LANDOR.

GEORGE MEREDITH

NOVELIST AND POET

THIS LITTLE BOOK ON AN ILLUSTRIOUS CONTEMPORARY

IS WITH DEEP RESPECT AND ADMIRATION

INSCRIBED.

PREFACE

This Introduction to the Study of Browning , which is now reprinted in a new form, revised throughout, and with everything relating to facts carefully brought up to date, has been for many years out of print. I wrote it as an act of homage to the poet whom I had worshipped from my boyhood; I meant it to be, in almost his own words, used of Shelley, some approach to "the signal service it was the dream of my boyhood to render to his fame and memory."

It was sufficiently rewarded by three things: first, by the generous praise of Walter Pater, in the Guardian , which led to the beginning of my friendship with him; then, by a single sentence from George Meredith, "You have done knightly service to a brave leader"; lastly, by a letter from Browning himself, in which he said: "How can I manage even to thank much more praise what, in its generosity of appreciation, makes the poorest recognition 'come too near the praising of myself'?"

I repeat these things now, because they seem to justify me in dragging back into sight a book written when I was very young, and, as I am only too conscious, lacking in many of the qualities which I have since acquired or developed... Continue reading book >>

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