Introductory note on John Milton (Volume 4, Harvard Classics)

In a superb poem, Milton bids Loathed Melancholy begone to some dark cell. He calls for the joys of youth and vows eternal faith with them. (Volume 4, Harvard Classics)

John Milton marries his third wife, Elizabeth Marshall, Feb. 24, 1662.

Introductory note on Robert Louis Stevenson (Volume 28, Harvard Classics)

Gossipy, witty Pepys had a curiosity that made him famous. He knew all the news of court and street. Stevenson, who never put his pen to a dull subject, writes of Pepys. (Volume 28, Harvard Classics)

Samuel Pepys born Feb. 23, 1632.

Introductory note on Robert Burns (Volume 6, Harvard Classics)

Burns asks for Columbia's harp, and then sings of liberty. He bewails the sad state of the land of Alfred and Wallace which once championed liberty, and now fights for tyranny. (Volume 6, Harvard Classics)

George Washington born Feb. 22, 1732.

Introductory note on John Henry Newman (Volume 28, Harvard Classics)

Just what makes a university? A group of fine buildings? A library? A staff of well-trained teachers? A body of eager students? A winning football team? Cardinal Newman defines the prime functions of a university. (Volume 28, Harvard Classics)

Cardinal Newman born Feb. 21, 1801.

Introductory note on Voltaire (Volume 34, Harvard Classics)

Because the early Quakers shook, trembled, and quaked when they became inspired --- they received the title of "Quakers." This sect attracted the keen-minded Voltaire, who made interesting notes on them during his visit to England. (Volume 34, Harvard Classics)