William Morris (1834-96) was an English poet, decorative artist, translator, romance writer, book designer, preservationist, socialist theorist, and political activist, whose admirers have been drawn to the sheer intensity of his artistic endeavors and efforts to live up to radical ideals of social justice.

This Companion draws together historical and critical responses to the impressive range of Morris's multi-faceted life and activities: his homes, travels, family, business practices, decorative artwork, poetry, fantasy romances, translations, political activism, eco-socialism, and book collecting and design. Each chapter provides valuable historical and literary background information, reviews relevant opinions on its subject from the late-nineteenth century to the present, and offers new approaches to important aspects of its topic.

Morris's eclectic methodology and the perennial relevance of his insights and practice make this an essential handbook for those interested in art history, poetry, translation, literature, book design, environmentalism, political activism, and Victorian and utopian studies.

About the Author

Florence S. Boos is the author of two books on Morris's poetry. She has also edited several of his works, and is the general editor of the William Morris Archive.

Reviews

"The Companion is an outstanding and extraordinary guide to all aspects of the reformer's life and work, animated by the recognition that because of Morris's versatile activities, no single scholar could ever attempt to research all aspects of the man. It has 22 chapters in over 600 pages with very fresh and fascinating visual material, including over 120 mostly unpublished images."

--Five Books

Book Information
ISBN 9780415347433
Author Florence S. Boos
Format Hardback
Page Count 534
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 1519g