A Dictionary of Classical Reference in English Poetry

A Dictionary of Classical Reference comprises a guide to classical names and references in English poetry from Chaucer to the twentieth century. Over eighty poets are covered, and all classical references in their works, with only minor exceptions, are included. The Dictionary is in two parts, the first of which consists of entries by character or event, defining the classical myths or stories attached to the subject in question and giving the original source followed by a list of the references in English poetry. The second part of the book is a reverse index, arranged by poet and works. It is therefore possible to study both the use of, for example, a particular myth in English poetry as a whole, or a particular poet's choice of classical material. The dictionary is particularly welcome at a time when the classical authors are no longer a part of the range of knowledge of most readers.