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Alfred TennysonEnglish poet
Date of Birth: 06.08.1809
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Poet Laureate
- University and Literary Success
- Personal Turmoil and Literary Recognition
- The Laureateship and Mature Works
- Later Career and Dramas
- Legacy
Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Poet Laureate
Early Life and EducationBorn on August 6, 1809, in Somersby, Lincolnshire, Alfred Tennyson was the fourth child of George Clayton Tennyson, a clergyman with literary talent. Tennyson's tumultuous childhood, marked by his father's temper, instilled in him a lifelong sensitivity.
At the age of four, Tennyson began attending a nearby grammar school, followed by home tutoring by his father. By age fifteen, he had penned a Scott-inspired poem and two verse dramas, showcasing his early literary prowess. In 1827, he published a joint collection with his brothers, "Poems by Two Brothers."
University and Literary Success
In 1827, Tennyson entered Trinity College, Cambridge, where he excelled despite his shy nature. He joined the university's Literary Society and befriended talented poets. In 1829, he won the Chancellor's Medal for his poem "Timbuctoo."
In 1830, Tennyson anonymously published "Poems Chiefly Lyrical," which garnered little attention. However, his reputation rose with the release of "Poems" (1832), featuring early versions of "The Lotos Eaters" and "The Lady of Shalott."
Personal Turmoil and Literary Recognition
After his father's death in 1831, Tennyson returned home to care for his family. In 1833, he suffered a devastating loss with the death of his close friend, Arthur Hallam. The grief poured into his poem "In Memoriam" (1850), which would later become a critical success.
In 1842, the threat of piracy prompted Tennyson to publish two volumes of poetry. The first showcased revised versions of his earlier works, while the second introduced new poems, including "Morte d'Arthur." Despite critical acclaim, sales were slow.
The Laureateship and Mature Works
In 1845, Tennyson received a royal pension, which enabled him to dedicate himself fully to writing. His first major work, "The Princess" (1847), explored the complexities of gender equality.
In 1850, Queen Victoria appointed Tennyson as Poet Laureate. His mature style was exemplified by his epic "Idylls of the King" (1859-1869), a cycle of poems inspired by Arthurian legend.
Later Career and Dramas
Tennyson expanded his repertoire to include poetic dramas, culminating in "Becket" (1884). However, his plays met with varying degrees of success.
In 1884, Tennyson was elevated to the peerage as Baron Tennyson of Aldworth. He continued to publish poetry until his death on October 6, 1892.
Legacy
Throughout his literary career, Tennyson remained committed to traditional poetic forms, with limited use of prose. His extensive oeuvre encompassed lyricism, narratives, and philosophical explorations. Tennyson's poetry profoundly captured the hopes and aspirations of the Victorian era, leaving an enduring legacy in English literature.
