A Defence of Poesie and Poems

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Sidney, Philip, 1554-1586

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"A Defence of Poesie and Poems" by Sir Philip Sidney is a significant work of literary criticism written in the late 16th century. This text engages with the nature of poetry, defending its value and role in society against contemporary critiques that viewed it as frivolous or detrimental. Sidney explores the power of poetry to enhance understanding and virtue, contending that it serves a higher purpose than mere entertainment. The opening portion introduces Sir Philip Sidney, detailing his early life, education, and the historical context of his time. It outlines his accomplishments and connections, particularly highlighting his friendships with influential figures like Edmund Spenser and his travels across Europe. The narrative sets the stage for his argument in defense of poetry, explaining that his writing was a response to contemporary critiques, especially those from Stephen Gosson, who had condemned poetry. Sidney begins to articulate his view on the essential nature of poetry as not only an artistic expression but also a vital means of truth and moral instruction, emphasizing its significance in human experience and its potential to inspire virtue. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Credits:

Transcribed from the 1891 Cassell & Company edition by David Price

Notes:

Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Apology_for_Poetry

Reading ease score: 64.9 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.

Release date is 1999-11-01