Eighteenth-Century Poetry and the Rise of the Novel Reconsidered

This book offers a fresh perspective on the interplay between poetry and novels in the eighteenth century, revealing their interconnectedness and cultural significance.

In Eighteenth-Century Poetry and the Rise of the Novel Reconsidered, a diverse group of esteemed and emerging scholars come together to explore the intricate relationship between poetry and novels during the pivotal period from Andrew Marvell’s 'Upon Appleton House' to Amelia Opie’s Romantic-era works. This collection of essays highlights the coexistence of poetry and novels in the bustling bookstalls of eighteenth-century England, emphasizing the vibrant literary landscape of the time.

The essays delve into the unexpected interactions between poetry and novels, revealing how these two forms of literature influenced one another. By examining these connections, Eighteenth-Century Poetry and the Rise of the Novel Reconsidered challenges traditional narratives and offers fresh perspectives on the cultural and literary history of the era. The contributors provide a nuanced understanding of how novels often incorporated poetic elements, blurring the lines between genres and enriching the reading experience.

This volume features contributions from notable scholars such as Margaret Doody, David Fairer, and Sophie Gee, among others. Each essay contributes to a larger conversation about the significance of poetry within the context of the rising novel, suggesting that the literary world of the eighteenth century was far more interconnected than previously acknowledged. Readers will find themselves engaged in a thoughtful reconsideration of the literary dynamics that shaped this transformative period.