Austin Dobson 
Horace Walpole: A memoir 
With an appendix of books printed at the Strawberry Hill Press

Austin Dobson’s ‘Horace Walpole: A memoir’ is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life of Horace Walpole, a prominent figure in the 18th-century literary scene. Dobson carefully examines Walpole’s achievements as a writer, art historian, and politician, providing readers with a detailed insight into his multifaceted personality. The book is written in a scholarly and meticulous style, reflecting Dobson’s thorough research and deep understanding of his subject. The literary context of the biography is enriched by Dobson’s own reputation as a respected poet and biographer, adding to the credibility of his analysis of Walpole’s life and work. Through an exploration of Walpole’s relationships with his contemporaries and his impact on the cultural landscape of his time, Dobson offers a nuanced portrayal of this complex historical figure.

Circa l’autore

Henry Austin Dobson (1840–1921), commonly known as Austin Dobson, was an English poet and essayist famous for his contributions to the revival of interest in 18th-century literature. Dobson’s literary style was characterized by his masterful use of the antiquated three-stress metre alongside other classical poetic forms, which infused his works with a delightful air of nostalgia and elegance. He was also known for his excellent biographies, as evidenced by ‘Horace Walpole: A Memoir, ‘ where Dobson carefully chronicled the life and letters of the famed 18th-century writer and politician. While Dobson’s poetry often exemplified light verse, his scholarly approach added gravity to his subjects drawn largely from the Georgian period. Over his lifetime, he created a valuable bridge between the Victorians and the historical past they romanticized. His works not only showcased his own talents but also played a significant role in preserving and promoting the literature of the English Augustan age. Structure and clarity dominated his prose, while his poetry was marked by wit, gentle satire, and the elegance reflective of the era he admired and conveyed through his literary endeavors.