Raleigh is a historical account chronicling the life of Sir Walter Raleigh, focusing on his journey as a soldier, explorer, and influential figure in Elizabethan England. The narrative dives into his early years, highlighting his birth in 1552 in Hayes Barton, Devonshire, and his family background, which includes his half-brother Sir Humphrey Gilbert. The work emphasizes Raleigh's early education and his experiences in France, capturing the challenges and opportunities that shaped his character. As the story unfolds, it reveals the ambition and determination that drove him to pursue exploration, along with his interactions with key historical figures and his role at court. His rise as an explorer and his eventual involvement in pivotal moments of history are portrayed with a focus on his personal evolution rather than the larger political landscape. Gosse crafts a portrayal of Raleigh that highlights his multifaceted nature, blending his aspirations with the complexities of his time. The narrative ultimately captures the spirit of a man whose life left an indelible mark on history.
Sir Edmund William Gosse was an English poet, author, and literary critic born on September 21, 1849, in London. He was raised in the strict religious environment of the Plymouth Brethren, a small Protestant sect. However, he eventually distanced himself from this faith, an experience he described in his autobiography Father and Son, which is considered one of the first psychological biographies. Gosse's early life and his break from his religious upbringing shaped much of his literary work, which often explored themes of conflict between personal beliefs and societal expectations. Over the course of his career, Gosse gained recognition for his contributions to literature and his insightful critiques. He was also known for his interest in natural history and his advocacy for the works of various poets and writers. Gosse married Ellen, Lady Gosse, and they had three children: Sylvia, Philip, and Emily Teresa. He passed away on May 16, 1928, in London at the age of 78. His legacy includes not only his own poetry and prose but also his significant influence on the field of literary criticism.