The Metaphysical Poets

This work provides and introduction to the work of six poets: Donne, Herbert, Crashaw, Vaughan, Marvell and Traherne. By closely examining how the poems work, this book aims to help readers enjoy and critically appreciate the ways in which fantastic and elaborate styles may express private intensities. There is emphasis on the differences covered by the term 'Metaphysical' and on the rich and strange diversity of the poets inner lives. A discussion of each poet is preceded by a 'Life' section in which the biological facts, personal, cultural and political, are treated with a view toward illuminating the concerns of the poet.

David Reid is a Lecturer in the Department of English Studies at the University of Stirling.