Wordsworth's Vagrants

Discover the intricate world of William Wordsworth in Wordsworth's Vagrants, authored by Quentin Bailey and published by Taylor & Francis Ltd in 2024. This compelling paperback explores the poet's nuanced treatment of the 'idle and disorderly' amidst the backdrop of the penal laws of the 1790s. During this tumultuous period, the fear of the French Revolution led to a harsh crackdown on beggars and vagrants wandering the English countryside. Bailey’s insightful readings span from the Salisbury Plain poems to the renowned Lyrical Ballads, offering a sensitive examination of Wordsworth's perspective on social issues. With 230 pages of thought-provoking analysis, this book is a must-read for poetry enthusiasts and scholars alike, providing a deeper understanding of Wordsworth's literary legacy and the societal challenges of his time.