The Cambridge Companion to John Donne introduces students (undergraduate and graduate) to the range, brilliance, and complexity of John Donne. Sixteen essays, written by an international array of leading scholars and critics, cover Donne's poetry (erotic, satirical, devotional) and his prose (including his Sermons and occasional letters). Providing readings of his texts and also fully situating them in the historical and cultural context of early modern England, these essays offer the most up-to-date scholarship and introduce students to the current thinking and debates about Donne, while providing tools for students to read Donne with greater understanding and enjoyment. Special features include a chronology; a short biography; essays on political and religious contexts; an essay on the experience of reading his lyrics; a meditation on Donne by the contemporary novelist A. S. Byatt; and an extensive bibliography of editions and criticism.

'… important … the first comprehensive guide to Donne's work …'

Source: The Times Literary Supplement

' … important…. the first comprehensive guide to Donne's works …'

Source: Contemporary Review

'… libraries serving the humanities should have this book on their shelves as it is sure to be consulted by students and teachers - and general readers - who are eager to find out more about one of the most rewarding of our poets.'

Source: Reference Reviews

'The volume is refreshing in its inclusion of a sociolinguistic exploration of the works, as well as an electrifying final piece by A. S. Byatt … This companion more than deserves to be on our libraries' shelves, enjoying pride of place next to its older siblings on Jonson, Marlowe, Shakespeare and Spenser'.

Source: English Studies