ENGLISH LITERATURE (CBSE/UGC NET)

Detailed explanation-1: -William Shakespeare’s first published poem was Venus and Adonis, which was published in 1593. This poem, like his second published poem, The Rape of Lucrece (1594), was dedicated to the Earl of Southampton, Henry Wriothesley.

Detailed explanation-2: -Shakespeare’s earliest poems, Venus and Adonis and The Rape of Lucrece, were probably composed when the theatres were closed because of the plague. Both were written to be printed, perhaps reflecting Shakespeare’s need of the patronage of the 3rd Earl of Southampton or his intention to become known as a poet.

Detailed explanation-3: -In 1593 and 1594, William Shakespeare, already established as a playwright, published two long poems, Venus and Adonis and Lucrece. The poems, which reflected the classical fashion of the time, were very successful.

Detailed explanation-4: -Shakespeare published two long poems, among his earliest successes: Venus and Adonis in 1593 and The Rape of Lucrece in 1594. These poems were dedicated to his patron the Earl of Southampton. Venus and Adonis was Shakespeare’s first-published work.

Detailed explanation-5: -With Venus and Adonis, Shakespeare in 1593 launches his career as a poet.