Lascelles Abercrombie, English poet and critic (d. 1938)

Lascelles Abercrombie (9 January 1881 – 27 October 1938) was a distinguished British poet and a pivotal literary critic, whose contributions spanned both creative writing and the rigorous study of literature. Renowned for his intellectual depth and insightful analyses, Abercrombie carved out a significant niche in the early 20th-century literary landscape, particularly as a prominent member of the "Dymock Poets."

The Dymock Poets: A Georgian Literary Collective

Abercrombie is perhaps best known for his association with the "Dymock Poets," a loose but influential collective of Georgian poets who converged in the rural tranquility of Dymock, Gloucestershire, just before and during the early years of the First World War. This informal group, which included luminaries such as Robert Frost, Edward Thomas, Wilfrid Gibson, and John Drinkwater, sought to foster a new simplicity and directness in English poetry. Their work often featured pastoral themes, a clear narrative voice, and a focus on everyday life, offering a stylistic counterpoint to the more elaborate or purely aesthetic poetry of the late Victorian era. The Dymock Poets shared an intellectual camaraderie and a mutual artistic influence, contributing significantly to the Georgian movement, which aimed to revitalize English verse with a fresh, less ornate sensibility. The idyllic setting provided a backdrop for their discussions, readings, and creative output, though the onset of the Great War dispersed the group and profoundly impacted their individual lives and work.

Academic Contributions and Literary Theory

Following the profound societal shifts and personal impacts of the First World War, Lascelles Abercrombie embarked on a distinguished academic career, transitioning his primary focus from creative poetry to the scholarly exploration of literature. He became a revered professor of English literature, holding prestigious appointments at several prominent British universities. His academic journey included professorships at the University of Liverpool (1919-1922), the University of Leeds (1922-1929), and Bedford College, University of London (1929-1935). His academic pinnacle was reached in 1935 when he was appointed Merton Professor of English Literature at the University of Oxford, a position he held until his death. Abercrombie's scholarly work centered principally on the theory of literature, a field in which he was a leading voice. His critical writings delved into the fundamental principles of poetry, the structure of dramatic works, and the methodologies of literary criticism. He explored the inherent nature of poetic language, the forms and functions of different literary genres, and the philosophical underpinnings of artistic expression, leaving a lasting legacy in literary scholarship through works like 'The Idea of Great Poetry' and 'Principles of English Prosody'. His rigorous analytical approach and deep understanding of literary mechanics solidified his reputation as an influential theorist and critic.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lascelles Abercrombie

Who was Lascelles Abercrombie?
Lascelles Abercrombie was a British poet and literary critic, known for his association with the "Dymock Poets" and his distinguished career as a professor of English literature, specializing in literary theory.
What was the significance of the "Dymock Poets"?
The Dymock Poets were an informal group of Georgian writers, including Abercrombie, Robert Frost, and Edward Thomas, who gathered in Gloucestershire. They advocated for a simpler, more direct style of poetry, often featuring pastoral themes, and were influential in the Georgian literary movement of the early 20th century.
Where did Lascelles Abercrombie teach?
After World War I, Lascelles Abercrombie served as a professor of English literature at several notable British institutions, including the University of Liverpool, the University of Leeds, Bedford College (University of London), and ultimately held the prestigious Merton Professorship of English Literature at the University of Oxford.
What was Lascelles Abercrombie's main academic focus?
His principal academic focus was the theory of literature, where he explored fundamental principles of poetics, dramatic form, and critical methodology, contributing significantly to the academic discourse on literary analysis and appreciation.