Popular Poetry, Popular Verse – Volume I

Written by William Shakespeare

Narrated by Anton Lesser and Simon Russell Beale

With more than 80 of the most popular and loved poems in the English language, this collection is one of the most comprehensive anthologies of its kind available. It covers a remarkable range, from the striking vision of Blake and Shelley and the insights of Keats to lighter but equally memorable verse by Tennyson, Kipling, G.K. Chesterton and Edward Lear.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Naxos Audiobooks
• Release date: Nov 1, 1994
• ISBN: 9781843796299

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare (1564–1616) is arguably the most famous playwright to ever live. Born in England, he attended grammar school but did not study at a university. In the 1590s, Shakespeare worked as partner and performer at the London-based acting company, the King’s Men. His earliest plays were Henry VI and Richard III, both based on the historical figures. During his career, Shakespeare produced nearly 40 plays that reached multiple countries and cultures. Some of his most notable titles include Hamlet, Romeo and Juliet and Julius Caesar. His acclaimed catalog earned him the title of the world’s greatest dramatist.

Reviews for Popular Poetry, Popular Verse – Volume I

[sweetiegherkin · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This poetry anthology covers a large number of well known British poets, although there are some gaps, notably Christopher Marlowe and Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Sadly, the anthology mostly includes poetry from male poets, although this is because most early poets were men. Still, this is a good introduction (or refresher) on English poetry. Furthermore, the narrators are adept at bringing the poetry to life. Classical music is included as breaks now and then in the narration – I’m not really sure what these breaks are supposed to signify, but the music is not unwelcome!