Figures of Several Centuries

"Figures of Several Centuries" by Arthur Symons contains short, engaging biographies and essays on various classic famous English writers that span hundreds of years. The essays are arranged chronologically by subject. In reading the collection, you're not only reintroduced to some of the most important literary figures in history, but you're also able to see who was considered most important by the author, and society at large at the time of its publication.