Hyperion (ePub)

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882) was a towering figure in American literature during the 19th century, revered for his lyric poetry, which combined American themes with classical knowledge. Born in Portland, Maine, when it was still part of Massachusetts, Longfellow demonstrated a precocious literary talent. He graduated from Bowdoin College alongside Nathaniel Hawthorne and subsequently spent time in Europe to prepare for a career in academia. He became a professor first at Bowdoin and later at Harvard, perfecting his multilingual expertise. Longfellow's body of work transcends the simple demarcations of genre, seamlessly blending the epic with the tender lyricism. His work encompasses a spirit of universality and moral clarity that mirrored the young nation's ambition and optimism. 'Hyperion' (1839), a romantic novel steeped in a European sensibility, showcases Longfellow's narrative prowess and his keen appreciation for European culture and lore. While 'Hyperion' is not as widely celebrated as his poetry, it stands testament to Longfellow's versatility and his earnest exploration of the depths of human experience. With a literary style marked by sentimentality and a proclivity toward verse that often employed a fireside narrative charm, Longfellow's poetry garnered great public affection, ensuring his place in American literary tradition. Among his enduring contributions are 'The Song of Hiawatha', 'Evangeline', and 'Paul Revere's Ride,' which remain staples within the canon of American poetry.