Harvard Classics

Introductory note on The Tempest by William Shakespeare (Volume 46, Harvard Classics)

Monsters of the earth, weird creatures of the air, magic romance, and shipwreck are mingled by a master hand in his thrilling drama. The fanciful, enchanting "Tempest" is the last work of the great bard of Stratford. (Volume 46, Harvard Classics)

“The Tempest” performed at Queen Elizabeth's court, Nov. 1, 1611.

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

Beware of magic! Once a year uneasy spirits are released and walk the earth from midnight until dawn. Spooks and goblins invade the most secure homes and the canniest must watch out for danger lurking in every dark corner. (Volume 6, Harvard Classics)

All Hallows' Eve.

Introductory note on Charles Lyell (Volume 38, Harvard Classics)

Lyell has been called the founder of modern geology. Darwin, the master scientist, called him "Geology's Greatest Benefactor." Lyell's research revolutionized ideas on that subject. (Volume 38, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on John Keats (The Ridpath Library of Universal Literature)

Though the son of a stable man, John Keats wrote the most exquisite and sublime poetry in our language. He was the friend of Shelley, Lord Byron, and the other literary leaders of the time --- his genius recognized by all. (Volume 41, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on John Locke (Volume 37, Harvard Classics)

Locke taught children by means of games. He tells of a game whereby children were taught to spell with dice on which the letters of the alphabet were pasted. This was more than 200 years before modern kindergarten methods. Today's children would respond to such wise direction as Locke recommends. (Volume 37, Harvard Classics)

John Locke died Oct. 28, 1704.