Oxford English Essayists

The aim of this anthology is to introduce the reader to the essay, a popular and powerful form of prose literature, through the medium of relatively short but complete pieces by outstanding English writers from Bacon to the present day. It has been com piled and annotated for the benefit of those who intend to special lise in English literature at the graduate level. In selecting the essays their intrinsic interest has been taken into account. It is hoped they will, without exception, provide enjoyable reading.

The notes are appropriate to the needs of advanced students.

There are introductory notes on each author, giving in brief his literary achievement and the stylistic aspects of his prose. Care has been taken to explain difficult words, phrases and allusions.

It is believed that students as well as the general reader will find this volume a useful introduction to the subject, the essay form of literature. The essays provide a varied fare which may be read with pleasure and profit.