Classical rhetoric in the poetic theory and practice of A.E. Housman

Abstract

To provide a general background for undertaking the main 'purpose of this study, the following procedures are essential: 1) an exploration of Housman's knowledge of classical rhetoric, 2) a clarification of the terminology in Housman's poetic theory, and 3) a full, critical statement on the validity of rhetorical criticism as applied to Housman's poems.