ABSTRACT

First published in 1951 this book presents a comprehensive account of the classical influences on English poetry with illustrative examples. This is a sequel to Thomson’s book on Classical Background of English Literature. The author brings important themes like Homer and epic tradition in antiquity; Milton and epic tradition in modern times; didactic poetry; lyric poetry; elegiac poetry; satire and comedy; and the epigram. This is an interesting read for students of English literature and general readers interested in English poetry.

chapter Chapter One|21 pages

The Epic

chapter Chapter Two|23 pages

The Epic Tradition in Antiquity

chapter Chapter Three|22 pages

The Epic Tradition in Modern Times: Milton

chapter Chapter Four|22 pages

Didactic Poetry

chapter Chapter Five|22 pages

Tragedy

chapter Chapter Six|19 pages

Comedy

chapter Chapter Seven|21 pages

Lyric Poetry

chapter Chapter Eight|13 pages

Elegiac Poetry

chapter Chapter Nine|24 pages

The Pastoral

chapter Chapter Ten|43 pages

Satire

chapter Chapter Eleven|8 pages

The Epigram