Sidney's 'The Defence of Poesy' and Selected Renaissance Literary Criticism

Explore the pivotal 16th-century debate in England as Puritan critiques of public morals sparked a robust defense of literature. This collection features Philip Sidney's influential "Defense of Poesy," a foundational text that draws on Classical criticism to champion English literary arts. Alongside Sidney's work, delve into George Puttenham's "Art of English Poesy," Samuel Daniel's "Defence of Rhyme," and critical insights from literary giants such as Ben Jonson, Francis Bacon, and George Gascoigne, offering a comprehensive look at Renaissance literary criticism.
Why You Should Read?
Discover a crucial period in literary history through the compelling arguments that defended the value of English literature.
Gain diverse perspectives from leading Renaissance writers and critics, enriching your understanding of the era's intellectual landscape.
Benefit from the authoritative texts and expert scholarly introductions provided by Penguin Classics, ensuring a high-quality reading experience.
Perfect for students and enthusiasts of literary criticism, English Renaissance literature, and the cultural debates that shaped the 16th century.
About the Author
Philip Sidney
(1554–1586) was an English poet, courtier, scholar, and soldier, who is remembered as one of the most prominent figures of the Elizabethan age. His works, including the sonnet sequence
Astrophil and Stella
and the prose romance
The Countess of Pembroke's Arcadia
, profoundly influenced English literature. Sidney's "The Defence of Poesy" remains a cornerstone of literary criticism, articulating a powerful argument for the moral and educational value of poetry.