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Percy Bysshe Shelley   By: (1840-1893)

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Percy Bysshe Shelley by John Addington Symonds is a comprehensive and captivating biography that delves deep into the life and works of one of the most influential poets of the Romantic era. Symonds, known for his expertise in Shelleyan literature, provides a remarkable analysis of the complex personality and poetic genius of Percy Bysshe Shelley.

The book begins with an insightful exploration of Shelley's early life, highlighting the various factors that shaped his thinking and laid the foundation for his later revolutionary ideas. Symonds deftly weaves together historical context, personal anecdotes, and literary analysis to paint a vivid portrait of the young poet. From Shelley's formative years at Eton College to his time at Oxford University, the reader is taken on a journey of discovery, witnessing the growth of a radical thinker.

What sets this biography apart is Symonds’ meticulous examination of Shelley's poetic development. Each of Shelley's major works, from "Prometheus Unbound" to "Ode to the West Wind," is scrutinized with an expert's eye, revealing the intricate layers of meaning and symbolism embedded within them. Symonds not only dissects the themes and techniques employed by Shelley but also provides insightful commentary on the historical and philosophical influences that shaped his writing.

Moreover, Symonds delves into the personal relationships that played a significant role in Shelley’s life. From his tempestuous marriage to Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein, to his friendships with fellow poets like Lord Byron and John Keats, the book offers a compelling look into Shelley’s intimate connections and how they influenced his work.

Symonds' prose style is engaging and accessible, making the biography both enjoyable for casual readers and valuable for scholars. He strikes a balance between providing intimate details of Shelley's personal life and maintaining a critical distance, allowing readers to form their own judgments about the poet. In addition, the extensive collection of letters and correspondence included in the book provides further insight into Shelley’s thoughts and motivations.

The only minor criticism of the biography is that it occasionally delves too deeply into the minutiae of Shelley's works, potentially overwhelming readers who are less acquainted with his poetry. However, this meticulous attention to detail is also a strength, especially for those seeking a comprehensive study of Shelley's literary achievements.

Overall, Percy Bysshe Shelley by John Addington Symonds stands out as a masterful biography that brings the enigmatic poet to life. Symonds' deep understanding of Shelley's work is evident throughout, and his exploration of the poet's life and legacy is both illuminating and inspiring. Anyone with an interest in Romantic literature or the poetic genius of Percy Bysshe Shelley will find this biography to be an invaluable resource.

First Page:

ENGLISH MEN OF LETTERS

EDITED BY JOHN MORLEY.

PERCY BYSSHE SHELLEY

BY

JOHN ADDINGTON SYMONDS.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER 1. BIRTH AND CHILDHOOD.

CHAPTER 2. ETON AND OXFORD.

CHAPTER 3. LIFE IN LONDON, AND FIRST MARRIAGE.

CHAPTER 4. SECOND RESIDENCE IN LONDON, AND SEPARATION FROM HARRIET.

CHAPTER 5. LIFE AT MARLOW, AND JOURNEY TO ITALY.

CHAPTER 6. RESIDENCE AT PISA.

CHAPTER 7. LAST DAYS.

CHAPTER 8. EPILOGUE.

LIST OF AUTHORITIES.

1. The Poetical and Prose Works of Percy Bysshe Shelley, edited by Mrs. Shelley. Moxon, 1840, 1845. 1 volume.

2. The Poetical Works, edited by Harry Buxton Forman. Reeves and Turner, 1876 7. 4 volumes.

3. The Works of Percy Bysshe Shelley, edited by W.M. Rossetti. Moxon, 1870. 2 volumes.

4. Hogg's Life of Shelley. Moxon, 1858. 2 volumes.

5. Trelawny's Records of Shelley, Byron, and the Author. Pickering, 1878. 2 volumes.

6. Shelley Memorials, edited by Lady Shelley. Smith and Elder. 1 volume.

7. Medwin's Life of Shelley. Newby, 1847. 2 volumes.

8. Shelley's Early Life, by D.F. McCarthy. Chatto and Windus. 1 volume.

9. Leigh Hunt's Autobiography. Smith and Elder.

10. W.M. Rossetti's Life of Shelley, included in the edition above cited, Number 3.

11. Shelley, a Critical Biography, by G... Continue reading book >>




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