John Lyly

"John Lyly" by John Dover Wilson is a literary treatise written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life and works of John Lyly, focusing on his contributions to English prose, namely his novel "Euphues," as well as his role as a dramatist and innovator in Elizabethan literature. It delves into the stylistic features of euphuism, a style associated with Lyly, and its significance in the development of English literary forms. The opening of the text outlines the objectives of Wilson’s analysis, emphasizing the necessity of a comprehensive examination of Lyly's influence on various literary genres. It discusses the historical context of Lyly's writings and identifies the importance of euphuism and its origins within English literature. The introduction also hints at Lyly's complex interactions with other literary figures of his time and critiques how his reputation has fluctuated in literary scholarship. This foundational chapter establishes a basis for further exploration of Lyly's stylistic innovations and the enduring impact of his work on subsequent English literature.