Harvard Classics

Introductory note on The Tragedy of King Lear by William Shakespeare (Volume 46, Harvard Classics)

Cordelia, daughter of old King Lear, could not convince her father of her love for him. Afterward, when misfortunes made him accept her aid, he learned too late of her real devotion. (Volume 46, Harvard Classics)

"King Lear" presented at Queen Elizabeth's court, Dec. 26, 1606.

Introductory note on The Gospel According to Luke (Volume 44, Harvard Classics)

Luke was a Greek physician, a man of culture, trained in the best universities of the ancient world. He became imbued with the spirit of Christ, and wrote the most beautiful story of the birth and life of Jesus. (Volume 44, Harvard Classics)

Christmas Day

Introductory note on William Harrison (Volume 35, Harvard Classics)

Before the Reformation in England almost every third day was a holy day. But the Puritans abolished all the holy days, even Christmas. (Volume 35, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on Charles Augustin Sainte-Beuve (Volume 32, Harvard Classics)

If all the books in the world were on fire, some men would risk their lives to save certain priceless writings: the world's classics. Sainte-Beuve here tells why. (Volume 32, Harvard Classics)

Sainte-Beuve born Dec. 23, 1804.

Introductory note on Charles Darwin (#2) (Volume 29, Harvard Classics)

Darwin, in exploring New Zealand, finds cannibalism, tattooing, and many weird customs among the natives. Instead of shaking hands, the salutation is by rubbing noses. (Volume 29, Harvard Classics)

Darwin visits New Zealand natives, Dec. 22, 1835.