Introduction

This is a monograph that aims to connect Byron's lifelong interest in history (testified by his pronouncements, readings and choice of subjects) to the developments that took place in the historiographical field over a period of time roughly stretching from the early eighteenth century to Byron's death. As such, it is meant as a contribution to an area of enquiry that was clearly outlined by Caroline Franklin when she lamented, in the context of a detailed survey of Byron's engagement with historical matters, the lack of sustained critical discussion of Byron's philosophy of history, setting out the agenda for future studies. ¹