Arthur Hugh Clough 
The Bothie of Tober-Na-Vuolich 

Arthur Hugh Clough’s ‘The Bothie of Tober-Na-Vuolich’ is a narrative poem that tells the story of a group of students who spend a summer at a remote Scottish inn, exploring themes of youth, love, and social class. Written in blank verse, the poem reflects the author’s interest in the Romantic movement and his desire to address contemporary social issues through literature. Clough’s use of vivid imagery and introspective language adds depth to the narrative, creating a thought-provoking reading experience for the audience. The Bothie of Tober-Na-Vuolich stands as a significant work in Victorian poetry, drawing on the traditions of the past while also pushing the boundaries of poetic form and content.

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Arthur Hugh Clough was a distinguished Victorian poet whose work is noted for its pioneering free verse and acute perception of the clash between science and religion in the nineteenth century. Born on January 1, 1819, in Liverpool, England, Clough was educated at Rugby School under the headmastership of Thomas Arnold, who left a lasting impact on his intellectual development. He later attended Balliol College, Oxford, where he was known for his scholastic prowess. Clough’s literary style often vacillated between earnestness and irony, offering an intricate portrayal of Victorian doubts and faith. His poem ‘The Bothie of Tober-Na-Vuolich’ is a pastoral epic written in hexameter that follows the romantic entanglements of a student during a summer vacation in Scotland, embodying both bucolic narrative and incisive social commentary. Clough’s work is emblematic of the transitional period in which he lived, embodying the Victorian crisis of faith and the shift towards modernist sensibilities. Despite his relatively small output before his premature death in 1861, Clough’s poetry has endured, continuing to be celebrated for its intellectual depth, emotional sincerity, and exquisite craftsmanship. Not only is he remembered for his own contributions to English literature, but he also held significant influence on other literary figures of his time, such as Matthew Arnold, who was his close friend.