The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume I.

"The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland" by Theophilus Cibber is a historical account written in the mid-18th century. This extensive work serves as a biographical compilation of notable poets from Britain and Ireland, detailing their lives, works, and contributions to literature. The first volume includes significant figures such as Geoffrey Chaucer, William Langland, and Sir Thomas More, offering insights into their personal histories and the broader literary context of their times. At the start of this volume, Cibber introduces Geoffrey Chaucer, delving into the uncertainty surrounding his birthplace and lineage, while highlighting his education and early literary attempts. The opening recounts Chaucer's life journey, from his studies at the university to his rise at the royal court, showcasing his relationships with influential patrons. Cibber portrays Chaucer as a multifaceted individual—poet, courtier, and ambassador—while also hinting at the tumultuous shifts of fortune that characterized his later years. This introductory biographical sketch sets the tone for the detailed accounts to follow of other poets, interweaving personal anecdotes with critical analysis of their contributions to English poetry.