Metaphysical Poetry: An Anthology (Dover Thrift Editions)

Metaphysical poetry, a term generally applied to the works of a group of English poets of the seventeenth century, is among the most read and studied verse in English literature, having proved enduringly popular and major influence on many twentieth-century poets. Dramatic and conversational in rhythm and tone, intriguing and complex in theme and idea, metaphysical poetry is also rich in striking and unusual imagery chosen from philosophy, theology, the arts, crafts, and sciences. This modestly priced anthology contains the best work by major poets of the school: John Donne, Andrew Marvell, George Herbert, Henry Vaughan, Richard Crashaw, Francis Quarles, and Thomas Traherne, all of whose works were originally considered a reaction against traditional Elizabethan verse of the late sixteenth century. Included are such masterpieces as Donne’s “The Good Morrow” and “Death, Be Not Proud”; Marvell’s “The Garden” and “To His Coy Mistress”; Herbert’s “Easter Wings”; Vaughan’s “The World,” and many more. Ideal for use in classrooms from high school through college, this outstanding anthology will appeal as well to lovers of fine English poetry.