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The Works of Lord Byron: Letters and Journals. Vol. 2

By Baron George

Summary of The Works of Lord Byron: Letters and Journals. Vol. 2

The book provides an in-depth look into the life of Lord Byron, focusing on his personal and literary developments between 1811 and 1814. During this period, Byron experienced significant events, including the death of his mother and a close friend, which influenced his writing and outlook on life. The publication of his poem "Childe Harold" brought him immense fame, and he became the "idol of society," attending various social events and engaging in tumultuous relationships, particularly with Lady Caroline Lamb. Byron's literary pursuits continued with the publication of "The Giaour" and "Bride of Abydos," and he remained committed to his political beliefs, as evident in his speeches in Parliament, where he advocated for the welfare of the working class. Throughout the book, Byron's letters and journals reveal his thoughts on literature, politics, and social issues, as well as his personal struggles, desires, and frustrations. The book offers a comprehensive understanding of Byron's life, showcasing his wit, humor, and introspection, and providing valuable insights into the mind of a prominent literary figure of his time.

Chapter Summary of The Works of Lord Byron: Letters and Journals. Vol. 2

Chapter V—Childe Harold, Cantos I, II

The chapter discusses Lord Byron's personal and literary life between August 1811 and March 1812. During this period, Byron was residing at Newstead Abbey, where he was dealing with personal losses, including the death of his mother and a close friend, Charles Matthews. He was also engaged in literary pursuits, including the publication of his poem "Childe Harold" and other works. Byron's letters to his friends and acquaintances, such as John Murray, James Wedderburn Webster, and R.C. Dallas, reveal his thoughts on literature, politics, and social issues. The chapter also touches on Byron's relationships with women, including his half-sister Augusta Leigh and Lady Caroline Lamb. Additionally, the chapter mentions Byron's plans to marry and settle down, as well as his desire to travel and experience new things. Overall, the chapter provides a glimpse into Byron's life during a significant period in his literary and personal development.

Chapter VI—The Idol of Society—The Drury Lane Address—Second Speech in Parliament

This chapter discusses Lord Byron's life between January and May 1812, during which he became the "idol of society" after the publication of his poem "Childe Harold". He was in high demand and attended various social events, including a party at Lady Jersey's, where he met Lady Caroline Lamb, with whom he started a romantic and tumultuous relationship. Byron also gave his second speech in Parliament, in which he opposed the Frame Breaking Bill, showing his concern for the welfare of the working class. Additionally, he exchanged letters with friends, including Thomas Moore and Francis Hodgson, discussing literature, politics, and social issues. Byron's personal life was marked by turmoil, including a quarrel with his servant, Robert Rushton, and his increasing fame, which brought him both admiration and criticism.

Chapter VII—The Giaour and Bride of Abydos

The chapter discusses Lord Byron's life from May 1812 to December 1813, during which he published his poems "The Giaour" and "Bride of Abydos". Byron was dealing with financial difficulties and was trying to sell his estate, Newstead Abbey. He was also involved in a tumultuous relationship with Lady Caroline Lamb and was planning to travel abroad. The chapter includes several letters written by Byron to his friends and acquaintances, including John Murray, Francis Hodgson, and Thomas Moore, which provide insight into his thoughts on literature, politics, and social issues. Byron's letters also reveal his frustration with the delays in the sale of his estate and his desire to escape his troubles by traveling. The chapter also mentions Byron's speech in Parliament, in which he opposed the Frame Breaking Bill, and his interactions with other notable figures of the time, including Leigh Hunt and Samuel Rogers.

Chapter VIII—Journal: November 14, 1813-April 19, 1814

This chapter covers the period from November 14, 1813, to April 19, 1814, in Lord Byron's life. During this time, Byron reflects on his personal life, literary pursuits, and relationships. He mentions his desire to travel and experience new things, and his frustration with the delays in the sale of his estate, Newstead Abbey. Byron also discusses his literary works, including his Turkish Tales, and his interactions with other notable figures of the time, such as Leigh Hunt, John Murray, and Thomas Moore. Additionally, the chapter touches on Byron's thoughts on politics, society, and his own morality, as well as his feelings about his past loves and relationships. Throughout the chapter, Byron's writings are marked by his characteristic wit, humor, and introspection, providing a glimpse into his thoughts and feelings during this period in his life.