Matthew Arnold: Poet and Prophet

An intimate and learned biography of this Victorian writer who left a lasting mark on British society. Arnold, whose books, articles and reports paved the way for the national system of secondary education through the Education Act of 1902, is seen in a new light by the author, who has loved Arnold’s poetry from his schooldays. Dr. Rowse devotes himself to an exploration of Arnold’s Cornish background and concludes that his Celtic temperament greatly influenced the poet and is reflected in his work. Originally published by Thames and Hudson in 1976.