Introductory note on William Makepeace Thackeray (Volume 28, Harvard Classics)

Swift was embarrassed by two women; Stella, whom he really loved, and Vanessa, with whom he had flirted and who had taken him seriously. Marriage to either one would break the heart of the other. (Volume 28, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on Marcus Tullius Cicero (Volume 9, Harvard Classics)

Cicero agrees with Browning that old age is the golden time of life, when the fruits of a well-spent life are harvested. Cicero, the wise Roman, welcomed old age for its gifts: wisdom, sound judgment, and contentment. (Volume 9, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on Homer (Volume 22, Harvard Classics)

The gods met in council and decreed that Odysseus be set adrift. Poseidon, God of the Sea, shattered the raft and Odysseus was cast ashore to encounter further adventures. (Volume 22, Harvard Classics)

Introductory note on James Henry Leigh Hunt (Volume 27, Harvard Classics)

Weep if you must. It is far better than to repress your tears. But Leigh Hunt finds greater virtue in cheerfulness. Fanciful and graceful --- his writings exerted a wholesome influence on all nineteenth century journalism. (Volume 27, Harvard Classics)

James Henry Leigh Hunt born Oct. 19, 1784.

Introductory note on Percy Bysshe Shelley (The Ridpath Library of Universal Literature)

From the title of a recently popular novel, we know that one prominent fiction writer of to-day was inspired by the verses of Shelley. Many others have also felt the stirring vigor of his poetry. What is your reaction? (Volume 41, Harvard Classics)