Cobbett is best known today as the author of Rural Rides, but in his lifetime, he was an enormously productive political and economic journalist and writer of books in many fields, and he is important to students in a number of disciplines, ranging from literature, through politics and economics, to social and political history. Originally published in 1973 this book presents an account of Cobbett's life and works, placing him in a wide cultural context and setting him above all in a literary tradition. The author investigates the sources, literary, social and political, for that complex of 'country' attitudes and the myth of a rural 'Merry England' which so dominated Cobbett's writings. Due regard is paid to Cobbett's historical significance as a political agitator, but the main emphasis is upon his literary qualities.

Reviews

Original Review of William Cobbett:

'Dr. Sambrook's study does have the double merit of being a good appreciation of Cobbett for the beginner and also an interesting and rewarding volume for the specialist.' John W. Osborne, The American Historical Review, Vol 79, Issue 3 (1974).

Book Information
ISBN 9781041300656
Author James Sambrook
Format Hardback
Page Count 238
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd