‘Another volume — and the second by Ian Brinton — in the series initiated by Continuum as introductions to classic literary texts. Designed as guides for undergraduate students, the volumes follow a format that is both tightly focussed and demanding in the provision of historical, critical and creative contexts. It proves a format that in good hands is far from formulaic: each of Ian Brinton's chapters is compact, informed and clear. The writing is a model of combining the pleasures of close reading with instruction of a rewardingly exact order. Imaginatively conceived, and executed with quiet authority and openness of mind, this is work that in the best sense makes an ‘old' text ‘new' again.'