The Oxford Handbook of William Wordsworth

This handbook serves as a vital resource for exploring the life and works of William Wordsworth, featuring essays that delve into his poetic legacy.

This comprehensive guide offers an essential resource for anyone interested in the life and works of William Wordsworth. The Oxford Handbook of William Wordsworth features forty-eight original essays contributed by a diverse team of international scholar-critics. These essays provide a thorough examination of Wordsworth's literary journey, highlighting key moments in his extensive career while also suggesting new avenues for critical analysis. The collection emphasizes the lyrical genius found in Lyrical Ballads and Poems in Two Volumes, as well as the significance of his blank verse in 'The Recluse'.

In addition to focusing on his poetry, the essays delve into various aspects of Wordsworth's life and the broader context of his work. This dialogic exploration covers major texts and critical issues in Wordsworth scholarship, allowing readers to engage with the poet's legacy in a meaningful way. The structure of the handbook is thoughtfully organized, presenting insights into Wordsworth's life, career, and the networks that influenced him.

Furthermore, the essays examine the many intellectual influences on Wordsworth's work, ranging from classical republican thought to modern scientific ideas. The impact of his poetry on contemporary culture is also discussed, touching upon themes such as gender, landscape, psychology, ethics, politics, religion, and ecology. The reception of his work in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly by fellow poets and modern critics, is also addressed, making this handbook an invaluable resource for both new and seasoned readers of Wordsworth.