Alfred, Lord Tennyson
Alfred Tennyson, 1st Baron Tennyson (6 August 1809 – 6 October 1892) was an eminent English poet who served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom during much of Queen Victoria's reign. Tennyson remains one of the most popular British poets and is noted for his mastery of classical poetic forms as well as his deep poetic voice, which gave expression to the moral and intellectual concerns of the Victorian era.
Early Life and Family
Born in Somersby, Lincolnshire, Tennyson was one of twelve children in the family of George Clayton Tennyson, a rector, and Elizabeth Fytche. He was educated first at home and later at King Edward VI Grammar School in Louth, Lincolnshire. Influenced by Lord Byron, Tennyson began writing poetry at an early age. He, along with his brothers Charles Tennyson Turner and Frederick Tennyson, published a collection of poems at the age of seventeen.
Education and Influences
Tennyson attended Trinity College, Cambridge, where he joined a secret society known as the Apostles. While at Cambridge, he developed a close friendship with Arthur Henry Hallam, a brilliant young scholar whose premature death in 1833 deeply affected Tennyson and inspired his famous elegy, "In Memoriam A.H.H.".
Career and Works
Tennyson's poetry underwent a period of maturation and reflection after Hallam's death. His work began to reflect more serious, philosophical themes. Some of his most notable works include "The Lady of Shalott", "The Charge of the Light Brigade", and "Ulysses". His poetry often incorporated themes of myth, legend, and history, creating a bridge between the ancient and the modern.
In 1842, Tennyson published a two-volume collection of his poems, which included "Locksley Hall" and "Break, Break, Break", securing his reputation as a leading poet of his time. His dramatic monologue, "Maud", published in 1855, was both controversial and popular, acclaimed for its innovative use of the monologue form.
Poet Laureate
In 1850, Tennyson was appointed Poet Laureate, succeeding William Wordsworth. As Laureate, Tennyson composed numerous verses commemorating national events, including the Crimean War and the deaths of notable figures. His position as Poet Laureate lent him a platform to influence public sentiment and contributed to his enduring legacy.
Personal Life
Tennyson married Emily Sellwood in 1850. The couple had two sons, Hallam Tennyson, 2nd Baron Tennyson, who later served as his father's biographer and Lionel Tennyson. The Tennysons lived in Aldworth House in Sussex and Farringford House on the Isle of Wight, where Tennyson continued to write and entertain many literary and political figures of his time.
Legacy
Tennyson's work has left a profound impact on the literary world. His ability to weave classical themes with Victorian sensibilities has been admired by generations. Poets such as T.S. Eliot and W.H. Auden later recognized Tennyson’s influence on English poetry. His legacy continues to be celebrated through his poetry, which remains a staple in English literature.