Thomas Campbell

The biography traces the poet's family background and upbringing, schooling and university years, early employments in the Highlands, and the publication and reception of an early celebrated poem. It follows his continental travels and prolonged wanderings, his marriage and eventual settlement in London, and examines his successive volumes, prose projects, public lectures, and later tours. The author draws on correspondence and contemporary reminiscences to portray personal habits, character, friendships, financial reverses, and critical reputation, concluding with an assessment of his poetic gifts and literary standing.