Charles Harpur

Related tags: Australian poetry, 19th-century poetry, colonial poetry, nature poetry, romantic poetry, landscape poetry, environmental poetry, political poetry, love poetry, posthumous publication, H. M. Martin

Charles Harpur (1813-1868) was an Australian poet who is widely regarded as the country's first great poet. He was born in Windsor, New South Wales, and spent most of his life living and working in rural areas. Harpur was a self-educated man, and he developed a deep love of nature and a keen interest in Australian history and culture.

Principles

Harpur's poetry is characterized by its commitment to Australian themes and its celebration of the Australian landscape. He was also a social and political commentator, and his poetry often addressed issues such as colonialism, environmentalism, and Aboriginal rights.

Notable works

Some of Harpur's most notable works include:

• "The Creek of the Four Graves"
• "Midsummer Noon in the Australian Forest"
• "The Tower of the Dream"
• "The Bush-Rangers"
• "The Dream by the Fountain"
• "A Midsummer's Eve in the Australian Forest"
• "The Sorrows of Love"
• "The Voyage of the Argonauts"
• "The Last of the Bushrangers"
• "The Tower of Siloam"
• "The Wizard's Grave"

Philosophy

Harpur's philosophy was based on his belief in the importance of the individual and the need for social and environmental justice. He also believed that Australia had a unique and important role to play in the world.

Death and legacy

Harpur died in Windsor, New South Wales, on June 10, 1868. He was 55 years old. Harpur's poetry was not widely appreciated during his lifetime, but it has since come to be recognized as some of the finest Australian poetry ever written. He is now remembered as one of the founding fathers of Australian literature.

Conclusion

Charles Harpur was a visionary poet who helped to shape the course of Australian literature. His poetry is characterized by its commitment to Australian themes, its celebration of the Australian landscape, and its social and political commentary. Harpur's work continues to inspire and challenge readers today.