ABSTRACT

This study, first published in 1945, gives a precise description of the unfolding of a great poet’s craftsmanship and suggests alignments of the technical progression with the changes of the mind.

Metrical analysis is given in order to throw light on Keats’ general stylistic development using the simplest terminology and in a traditional manner. Earlier English prosodic writings are referred to throughout in order to place the style and development in the context of the period. Arranged chronologically, each chapter looks at a particular work or group of works drawing together evidence about Keats’ poetic direction.

This classic work from a well-known Keats scholar is an important enlightening contribution within the extensive study of Keats’ poetry and letters.

part I|42 pages

The Apprenticeship

chapter 1|11 pages

The Early Sonnets

chapter 2|9 pages

The Early Couplets

chapter 3|15 pages

Isabella

part II|99 pages

Intensity and Restraint

chapter 1|16 pages

A “Principle of Melody in Verse”

chapter 2|25 pages

Hyperion

chapter 3|27 pages

The Eve of St. Agnes

chapter 4|8 pages

The Later Sonnets

chapter 5|16 pages

The Odes of May, 1819

part III|45 pages

An Uncompleted Transition

chapter 1|26 pages

Lamia

chapter 2|10 pages

Fall of Hyperion

chapter 3|5 pages

To Autumn