Pastoral Poetry and Pastoral Drama A Literary Inquiry, with Special Reference to the Pre-Restoration Stage in England   By: Walter W. Greg (1875-1959)

In "Pastoral Poetry and Pastoral Drama: A Literary Inquiry, with Special Reference to the Pre-Restoration Stage in England," Walter W. Greg delivers a comprehensive study analyzing the intricacies of pastoral literature during the pre-Restoration period. This is an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts of English literature, offering a detailed examination of the genre's evolution and its historical and social context.

One of the book's strengths lies in its meticulous research and scholarly approach. Greg leaves no stone unturned, delving into a wide range of primary sources, such as plays, poems, and other literary works, to present a nuanced understanding of pastoral poetry and drama. Through his analysis, he successfully highlights key themes, trends, and influences prevalent during this era, contributing significantly to the existing body of knowledge on the subject.

The author's writing style is accessible and engaging, making the complex subject matter more digestible for readers. Even those unfamiliar with pastoral literature will find themselves immersed in Greg's well-structured arguments and compelling insights. His extensive knowledge of the period's social and cultural backdrop shines through, offering readers a richer understanding of the texts under scrutiny.

Additionally, Greg's approach to examining pastoral literature within its historical context adds another layer of interest to his work. By exploring the socio-political and cultural landscape of the pre-Restoration era, he provides readers with a more profound comprehension of the motivations and intentions behind pastoral works. This contextualization greatly enhances our understanding of the genre's purpose and significance during a fascinating period in English literature.

Admittedly, "Pastoral Poetry and Pastoral Drama" is a specialized book that primarily caters to academicians and researchers. Some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming or too specific for their tastes. However, for those passionately interested in the subject, Greg's meticulous research and comprehensive analysis make this an essential reference and a stepping stone for further exploration.

In conclusion, Walter W. Greg's "Pastoral Poetry and Pastoral Drama: A Literary Inquiry, with Special Reference to the Pre-Restoration Stage in England" is a remarkable and erudite study that contributes significantly to the understanding of pastoral literature during the pre-Restoration period. With its thorough research, engaging writing style, and insightful contextualization, this book provides a valuable resource for scholars and anyone seeking a deeper appreciation of English literary history.

First Page:

Some ten years ago, it may be, Mr. St. Loe Strachey suggested that I should write an article on 'English Pastoral Drama' for a magazine of which he was then editor. The article was in the course of time written, and in the further course of time appeared. I learnt two things from writing it: first, that to understand the English pastoral drama it was necessary to have some more or less extensive knowledge of the history of European pastoralism in general; secondly, that there was no critical work from which such knowledge could be obtained. I set about the revision and expansion of my crude and superficial essay, proposing to prefix to it such an account of pastoral literature generally as should make the special form it assumed on the English stage appear in its true light as the reasonable and rational outcome of artistic and historical conditions... Continue reading book >>