Stories from the Italian Poets: with Lives of the Writers, Volume 2

Name: Stories from the Italian Poets: with Lives of the Writers, Volume 2
Author: Leigh Hunt

By Leigh Hunt

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About This Book

The volume pairs concise biographical notices of Italian Renaissance poets with prose retellings of episodes from their chivalric and romantic epics. It recounts adventures drawn from those poems — rival suitors, misdirected love, jealous heroes, combat between Christian and non‑Christian champions, enchanted forests, and fantastic voyages such as a moonward journey. Specific narratives include accounts of Angelica and her suitors, Angelica and Medoro, Orlando's jealousy, Astolfo's journey to the moon, Rinaldo and Armida, and the trials of Olindo and Sophronia and Tancred and Clorinda. An appendix offers translations of selected episodes alongside critical commentary on each poet's life, style, and imaginative gifts.

About the Author

Leigh Hunt

Leigh Hunt (1784-1859) was an English poet, essayist, and critic known for his contributions to the Romantic literary movement. He was a close friend of prominent figures such as John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley, and his work often reflects the themes of friendship and social justice. Among his notable works is "A Jar of Honey from Mount Hybla," which showcases his lyrical style and appreciation for nature. Hunt also made significant contributions to literary criticism and journalism, particularly through his essays and periodicals. His writings on Italian poets in "Stories from the Italian Poets" highlight his interest in cross-cultural literary influences.