LAST POEMS

London: Chapman and Hall, 1862. First Edition. Cloth. Very Good/None. 12mo, original blind-stamped purple publisher's cloth with gilt lettering, 142 uncut pages + [2] ads. Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806-1861) was one of the most prominent English poets of the Victorian era. She is particularly remembered for such poems as "How Do I Love Thee?" (Sonnet 43, 1845) and her love affair with poet Robert Browning. Elizabeth Barrett wrote poetry precociously from the age of six, but at fifteen she suffered from intense spinal (tubercular?) pain which made her a lifelong invalid and dependent on laudanum. Her first collection of poems was published in 1838, and she wrote prolifically thereafter producing poetry, translations, and prose. She campaigned for the abolition of slavery and reform in child labour. Elizabeth's highly successful volume Poems (1844) attracting the admiration of poet Robert Browning. Their correspondence, courtship and marriage were carried out in secret, for fear of her father's disapproval. Following the wedding, the couple moved to Casa Guidi in Florence, Italy in 1846, where she would live for the rest of her life. They had one son, Robert "Pen" Browning. In 1861, she died in Florence. This collection of her Last Poems was published by her husband shortly after her death. These poems consist mainly of personal lyrics, translations from Greek and Latin poetry, and poems on Italian politics. A Very Good copy with previous owner's inscription on free front endpaper; slight rubbing to upper cap and split on gutter (as shown); front inner hinge becoming open and text somewhat loose in covers. Barnes A13.