Dorothy and William Wordsworth

Originally published in 1927, this volume contains a series of short essays on the lives and works of Dorothy and William Wordsworth. In the composition of his poetry, William relied heavily on the detailed accounts of nature found in Dorothy's writings, particularly the Grasmere Journal. But in spite of this, and although she was a skilled artist in her own right, Dorothy tends to be overshadowed by William's achievements. These essays are notable for asserting the importance of Dorothy, both in terms of her literary achievements and her influence on her brother. They will be of value to anyone with an interest in the Wordsworths and the development of British Romanticism.

Preface; 1. A tour made in Scotland in 1803; 2. Dorothy Wordsworth; 3. Dorothy and William Wordsworth; 4. The Lucy poems; 5. In the workshop; 6. Vulgar errors; 7. A commentary on Wordsworth's theory of poetic diction; 8. The substance of Wordsworth's poetry; 9. On the depreciation of Wordsworth's poetry.