Keeping the Ancient Way: Aspects of the Life and Work of Henry Vaughan (1621-1695)

Keeping the Ancient Way is the first book-length study of Henry Vaughan by a single author in twenty years, covering his debt to hermetic philosophy, royalist allegiance, loyalty to the Church of England, intertextuality, and literary treatment of the natural world. It provides an accessible introduction to the poet and his period for students and general readers, with up-to-date scholarship for specialists.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2024
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

Keeping the Ancient Way is a groundbreaking book-length study of Henry Vaughan, authored by a single scholar after a gap of twenty years. It delves into various crucial aspects that shape our understanding and appreciation of this prominent seventeenth-century writer. These include Vaughan's profound connection to the hermetic philosophy propagated by his twin brother, the alchemist Thomas Vaughan; his unwavering allegiance to the royalist cause during the Civil War; his unwavering support for the outlawed Church of England during the Interregnum; the remarkable intertextuality present in his poetry, particularly with the Scriptures and the devotional lyrics of George Herbert; and his literary portrayal of the natural world, which has been interpreted from Christian, proto-Romantic, and ecological perspectives.

The chapters in this book are self-contained, each presenting its topic in relation to past and current critical debates. However, the book is structured in a way that the biographical, intellectual, and political focus of Part One informs the discussion of poetic craftsmanship in Part Two. A wealth of historical information and meticulous critical readings make this work accessible to students and general readers alike, providing an insightful introduction to the poet and his era. Moreover, the up-to-date scholarship in this book will appeal to specialists in the fields of literature and history, particularly those interested in the Civil War and Interregnum periods.

In conclusion, Keeping the Ancient Way is a seminal work that sheds new light on the life and works of Henry Vaughan, a poet whose influence continues to resonate in the present day. Through its comprehensive exploration of key topics, this book offers a rich and nuanced understanding of Vaughan's literary legacy, making it an essential resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802074840