The Ring and the Book
The Ring and the Book by Robert Browning, published by Broadview Press in August 2001, is a significant long poem from the Victorian era, spanning 824 pages. This edition is based on the 1888–89 version and incorporates the final corrections Browning intended before his death. The poem originated from Browning’s discovery of an “old yellow book” in Florence, which contained legal documents related to a complex case from 1698 involving a child bride, a disguised priest, and a series of murders.
Readers will find a detailed exploration of the historical case that inspired Browning, along with a substantial introduction that contextualizes the poem within its literary and historical framework. This edition also features selections from Browning’s correspondence and contemporary reviews, providing insight into the poem’s reception and significance. The work engages with themes relevant to poetry, European literature, and the intricacies of legal and moral dilemmas, making it a rich resource for those interested in Browning’s contributions to English literature.
Official synopsis Publisher
In June, 1860, Browning purchased an “old yellow book” from a bookstall in Florence. The book contained legal briefs, pamphlets, and letters relating to a case that had been tried in 1698 involving a child bride, a disguised priest, a triple murder, four hangings and the beheading of a nobleman. Browning resolved to use it as the source for a poem. The result, The Ring and the Book, is certainly one of the most important long poems of the Victorian era and is arguably Browning’s greatest work.
Basing their edition on the 1888–89 version of the poem, Altick and Collins include the last corrections Browning intended before his death. In addition to a substantial introduction, this Broadview Literary Texts edition also includes selections from Browning’s correspondence, and contemporary reviews and reactions to the work.
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