Synopsis
Algernon Charles Swinburne is often thought to be one of the most talented poets in English history. Recognized at the age of thirty as England's premier poet during the Victorian era, in a very real sense he succeeded Lord Tennyson. He published several books of poetry, many of which were considered somewhat controversial at the time, as well as a few notable essays including The Age of Shakespeare. In this piece, Swinburne shines as a poet writing about other poets, such as Christopher Marlowe, George Chapman, and John Marston, all of whom lived during the same time as William Shakespeare. He endeavors to identify what sets them apart from other writers and show how the brilliance of their works borders on the prominence of Shakespeare. He demonstrates that there were more great minds at work during this period than are often recognized. With its flowing language and insightful opinions, The Age of Shakespeare is a stimulating and profound look into a century of poetic knowledge.