Alexander Pope

Alexander Pope
Alexander Pope (1688–1744) was an English poet and satirist, known for his sharp wit, precise use of language, and mastery of the heroic couplet. He is best remembered for his mock-epic poem "The Rape of the Lock" and his translation of Homer's "Iliad" and "Odyssey." His major work, "The Dunciad," satirizes dullness in literature and society. Pope's critical essays, including "An Essay on Criticism" and "An Essay on Man," are also highly regarded for their philosophical insights and aphorisms.

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ALEXANDER POPE. This eminent English poet was born in London, May 21, 1688. His parents were Roman Catholics, and to this faith the poet adhered, thus debarring himself from public office and employment. His father, a linen merchant, having saved a moderate competency, withdrew from business, and settled on a small estate he had purchased in Windsor Forest. He died at Chiswick, in 1717. His son shortly... more...

The reply of Maximilian to the wealthy courtier who tendered him a goodly purse of gold for a title of nobility, was worthy of that emperor: "I can enrich thee," he said, "but only thy own virtue can enoble thee" All true grandeur, excellence, and dignity, are the offspring of virtue. Even the most renowned oracles of paganism proclaim this, and the very persecutors of holiness are... more...

INTRODUCTION Perhaps no other great poet in English Literature has been so differently judged at different times as Alexander Pope. Accepted almost on his first appearance as one of the leading poets of the day, he rapidly became recognized as the foremost man of letters of his age. He held this position throughout his life, and for over half a century after his death his works were considered not only... more...