The Works of Henry Vaughan

This comprehensive edition presents the complete works of Henry Vaughan, including biographical and bibliographical insights, and highlights the historical context of his writings.

This newly prepared, complete edition of The Works of Henry Vaughan is the first of its kind in over a century. It offers readers a comprehensive biography of Vaughan, alongside a detailed history of scholarly developments related to his work. Each volume published during Vaughan's lifetime is accompanied by bibliographical descriptions, ensuring that readers have a thorough understanding of the context in which his poetry and prose were created. The texts maintain original spelling and punctuation, allowing for an authentic reading experience.

In the introduction, readers will discover an updated biography that traces Vaughan's life and influences, as well as a substantial overview of the evolution of Vaughan scholarship from the seventeenth century to the present day. The edition includes footnotes that highlight textual variants and editorial changes made in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, providing valuable insights into the text's history. Each of Vaughan's volumes is presented in the order of publication, with introductory essays that discuss the circumstances surrounding their release and their significance in literary history.

Additionally, The Works of Henry Vaughan includes Vaughan's surviving letters, as well as appendices featuring additional poems, uncertain attributions, and notes found in Vaughan's medical books. The third volume offers commentary on both prose and poetry, integrating insights from recent scholarly work. This edition situates Vaughan's translations and original prose within the complex religious, political, and intellectual landscape of the mid-seventeenth century, making it an essential resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike.