When was Walt Whitman popular?

When was Walt Whitman popular?

Walt Whitman (May 31, 1819–March 26, 1892) is one of the most significant American writers of the 19th century, and many critics consider him the nation’s greatest poet. His book “Leaves of Grass,” which he edited and expanded over the course of his life, is a masterpiece of American literature.

What was going on during Walt Whitman’s life?

Whitman’s own life came under scrutiny for his presumed homosexuality. Born in Huntington on Long Island, as a child and through much of his career he resided in Brooklyn. At age 11, he left formal schooling to go to work. Later, Whitman worked as a journalist, a teacher, and a government clerk.

When did Walt Whitman live?

May 31, 1819 – March 26, 1892
Walt Whitman/Years of Living

Walt Whitman, in full Walter Whitman, (born May 31, 1819, West Hills, Long Island, New York, U.S.—died March 26, 1892, Camden, New Jersey), American poet, journalist, and essayist whose verse collection Leaves of Grass, first published in 1855, is a landmark in the history of American literature.

Why is Whitman unique?

Whitman is considered the father of free-verse poetry. But he was much more than that. He introduced readers to previously forbidden topics — sexuality, the human body and its functions — and incorporated unusual themes, such as debris, straw and leaves, into his work.

Why is Walt Whitman important?

Walt Whitman. Walt Whitman (1819-1892) is generally considered to be the most important American poet of the 19th century. He wrote in free verse, relying heavily on the rhythms of native American speech.

What poems did Walt Whitman write?

Walt Whitman wrote over three hundred poems, and published two major collections of poetry: Leaves of Grass and Drum-Taps. Here are some of his most famous poems: ”Pioneers! O Pioneers!”. ”When I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer”. ”O Captain! My Captain!”.

What did Walt Whitman do?

Walt Whitman is America’s world poet—a latter-day successor to Homer, Virgil , Dante, and Shakespeare. In Leaves of Grass (1855, 1891-2), he celebrated democracy, nature, love, and friendship. This monumental work chanted praises to the body as well as to the soul, and found beauty and reassurance even in death.

When was Walt Whitman born?

Called the “Bard of Democracy” and considered one of America’s most influential poets, Walt Whitman was born on May 31, 1819 in West Hills, Long Island, New York.