The Heptalogia (ePub)

Algernon Charles Swinburne (1837-1909) was an English poet, playwright, novelist, and critic who is best known for his lyrical poetry and verse dramas. Born into a wealthy Northumbrian family, Swinburne was educated at Eton and Balliol College, Oxford, though he did not complete his degree. He became associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and was closely linked to figures such as Dante Gabriel Rossetti and William Morris. Swinburne's poetry is characterized by its emotional intensity, intricate rhythms, and exploration of taboo subjects. Notoriously, he delved into themes of eroticism, sadomasochism, and paganism, intertwined with his mastery of meter and rhythmic complexity.

His collection 'The Heptalogia' (1880), albeit lesser-known, demonstrates his prowess in parody and satire, engaging with the works of other contemporary poets. Swinburne's major works often provoked controversy due to their content but were also praised for their technical brilliance and innovative use of meter and rhyme. His volumes such as 'Poems and Ballads' (1866) and 'Atalanta in Calydon' (1865) were influential, marking him as a significant figure in Victorian literature. Despite the declining popularity after his death, Swinburne's work saw a revival in critical interest in the late twentieth century and continues to be studied for its rich use of language and boundary-pushing ideas.