Walt Whitman's passionate writing style and bold subject matter have deeply influenced American poetry. Nearly all of his poems were published in Leaves of Grass, which Whitman obsessively expanded, edited, and republished throughout his life, ultimately leaving behind a powerful literary legacy.

Edgar Allan Poe's eerie stories and poems continue to captivate readers to this day. He not only wrote such gothic classics as "The Raven," "The Tell-Tale Heart," and "The Fall of the House of Usher," he also lived a haunted life worthy of one of his tales.

Although he spent much of his career in obscurity, Herman Melville, the author of classics such as Moby-Dick, Billy Budd, and "Bartleby, the Scrivener," has since become known as one of America's greatest writers.

Ralph Waldo Emerson was a key figure of the American Renaissance of the mid-19th century. His essay "Nature" is considered one of the most influential works in American history, and he inspired the likes of Whitman, Thoreau, and Dickinson.

Noted for their witty depictions of English country life and sharply satirical views of class structure and human behavior, 19th-century novelist Jane Austen's works, which include such classics as Emma and Pride and Prejudice, possess a timeless appeal for both general readers and literary scholars.

Deeply influenced by his Puritan heritage, Nathaniel Hawthorne is the author of the classic novels The Scarlet Letter and The House of the Seven Gables. He also wrote brilliant short stories, which include such tales as "Young Goodman Brown" and "The Minister's Black Veil."

Fourteenth-century author, poet, and civil servant Geoffrey Chaucer has delighted readers through the ages with his colorful tales filled with humanity, grace, and strength. He is best known for The Canterbury Tales, a vibrant account of life in England during his own day.

This volume in the 'Bloom's Classic Critical Views' series presents historical essays from the 19th and early 20th century about this American novelist.

Benjamin Franklin was one of the most dynamic figures in early American history, publishing "Poor Richard's Almanac" as well as several other works. When not writing or editing, Franklin conducted scientific experiments, established many local and national institutions, and led diplomatic missions. This new volume in the "Bloom's Classic Critical Views" series features compelling essays from the 19th and 20th centuries that give students historical insights into one of our country's Founding Fathers.

Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Bronte left an indelible mark on the literature of their age. Collectively, their novels give voice to often-isolated individuals who struggle to be heard and reconcile their own needs and desires with the expectations and double standards of their times. This new offering from the "Bloom's Classic Critical Views" series presents informative essays about the work of these three sisters.