Book Title ~ Theocritus In English Literature ~ A Thesis Presented To The Graduate Faculty Of Yale University In Candidacy For The Degree Of Doctor Of Philosophy, May 1, 1906
Author ~ Robert Thomas Kerlin
Publisher ~ J.P. Bell Co., Lynchburg, Virginia.
© Date ~ 1910, probably a First Edition but not stated, no other date present.
Cover ~ Brown cloth hardcover with gilt lettering on the front cover and spine.
Number of Pages ~ 203 pages with Index.
Illustrated ~No.
Book measures about ~ 9 inches X 6 inches X 1 inch.
Condition ~ Very Good. There is some fading on the spine cover. The name of a previous owner is neatly written on the top of the front flyleaf. Otherwise the Book is in Very Good condition! The pages ARE clean and bright!
About the Book ~
"Robert T. Kerlin's Theocritus in English Literature (1910) is a comprehensive scholarly survey tracking the influence of the Greek pastoral poet Theocritus on English literature from the 16th to the 19th century. Kerlin documents the reception of Theocritus, noting his peak popularity in the Elizabethan and 18th~century eras."
Key Aspects of the Book:
Historical Scope: The book, originally a Yale thesis, analyzes the rise and fall of Theocritus' influence through various literary periods, including the Renaissance, Restoration, and Romantic periods, with a strong focus on pastoral poetry and its evolution.
Elizabethan Influence: Kerlin highlights Theocritus' substantial impact on Elizabethan pastoralists, particularly noting he was considered the primary model for pastoral work.
Key Connections: The book notes references and influences in early English literature, such as in Skelton (1523) and the influence on Astrophel and Lycidas.
18th Century & Romantic Focus: More than one~third of the book is dedicated to the 19th-century reception, showing a lingering, though changing, appreciation for Theocritus among Romantic and Victorian poets.
Bibliographical Value: The study includes a detailed bibliography and summarizes the influence of the "father of pastoral poetry" over English pastoral traditions.