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Essays in Criticism by Matthew Arnold, presented in this annotated and scholarly editionedited by William Savage Johnson, is a cornerstone in the development of English literarycriticism. Originally published in the Victorian era, Arnold’s essays represent a powerfuladvocacy for culture, literary excellence, and moral refinement through literature.This collection features seminal essays that critique major literary figures, evaluate culturalphenomena, and argue for the transformative power of literature. Arnold's critical thought ischaracterized by clarity, intellectual rigor, and a passionate belief in the role of literature in personaland social upliftment.With commentary and introductions by William Savage Johnson, this 2025 edition contextualizesArnold’s work for modern readers, offering a bridge between 19th-century thought and 21st-centuryacademic inquiry. It is a vital text for students of English literature, literary theory, and those seekingto understand the moral force behind Victorian criticism.Whether you're exploring Arnold’s concept of “culture” as a tool for human perfectibility or hisreflections on Chaucer, Milton, or the French critical tradition, this edition delivers both depth andaccessibility.