Reproduction of the original: Poetical Works of William Lisle Bowles by George Gilfillan

Literary history has conventionally viewed Milton as the last real practitioner of the epic in English verse. Herbert Tucker's spirited book shows that the British tradition of epic poetry was unbroken from the French Revolution to World War I.

"The Poetical Works of William Lisle Bowles" unveils the lyrical brilliance of this influential English poet. Revered for his contributions to Romantic poetry, Bowles's collection spans a range of themes, from the sublime beauty of nature to the depths of human emotion. In works like "Sonnet to the River Itchin" and "Fourteen Sonnets," Bowles showcases his mastery of the sonnet form, infusing each line with delicate imagery and introspective musings. The poet's verses often reflect a deep connection to the natural world, capturing the essence of landscapes and seasons. Bowles's contemplative and emotive poetry resonates with the Romantic ideals of sensibility and introspection. In "The Spirit of Discovery," he explores the allure of exploration and the human spirit's quest for knowledge. "The Poetical Works" is a testament to Bowles's influence on the Romantic movement, paving the way for poets like Wordsworth and Coleridge. This collection invites readers to traverse the poetic landscapes crafted by Bowles, where each stanza is a brushstroke painting vivid scenes of nature and emotion. Immerse yourself in the timeless verses of William Lisle Bowles, and experience the enduring beauty of his poetic legacy.

Reproduction of the original: Poetical Works of Wlliam Lisle Bowles by George Gilfillan

The sources in this volume focus on Great Britain’s moral, financial, and diplomatic interventions and ambitions in Latin America. It begins during the wars of independence spanning 1810-1825, when Foreign Secretary George Canning prematurely declared, "Spanish America is free; and if we do not mismanage our affairs sadly, she is English." The independence movements of the former Spanish and Portuguese colonies, as well as their ancient past, inspired Romantic writers such as Anna Letitia Barbauld and spurred British military support and political debate, as attested by mercenary Richard Vowell’s Campaigns and Cruises in Venezuela and James Mill's "Emancipation of Spanish America."