Biography of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Full Name and Common Aliases

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, often referred to simply as Longfellow, was a prominent American poet and educator. He is sometimes affectionately called "The Children's Poet" due to his accessible and lyrical style that appeals to readers of all ages.

Birth and Death Dates

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born on February 27, 1807, and passed away on March 24, 1882.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Longfellow was an American national. He was a distinguished poet, educator, and translator, whose works have left an indelible mark on American literature.

Early Life and Background

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was born in Portland, Maine, which was then part of Massachusetts. He was the second of eight children in the Longfellow family. His father, Stephen Longfellow, was a lawyer and a member of the Massachusetts legislature, while his mother, Zilpah Wadsworth Longfellow, was the daughter of a Revolutionary War hero. This rich familial background instilled in him a deep appreciation for history and storytelling.

Longfellow's early education was at the Portland Academy, where he demonstrated a keen interest in literature and languages. At the age of 15, he enrolled at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine, where he formed lifelong friendships with notable figures such as Nathaniel Hawthorne. His academic prowess was evident, and he graduated in 1825, ranking fourth in his class.

Major Accomplishments

After college, Longfellow embarked on a career in academia. He was offered a professorship in modern languages at Bowdoin College, which required him to travel to Europe for further studies. This journey marked the beginning of his lifelong fascination with European culture and literature. Upon his return, he introduced the study of modern languages at Bowdoin, a pioneering move at the time.

In 1834, Longfellow accepted a position at Harvard University, where he continued to teach modern languages. His tenure at Harvard was marked by his innovative teaching methods and his ability to inspire students. During this period, he also began to publish poetry, which quickly gained popularity.

Notable Works or Actions

Longfellow's literary career is marked by a series of celebrated works that have become staples of American poetry. His first major collection, "Voices of the Night," published in 1839, included the famous poem "A Psalm of Life," which remains one of his most quoted works. This was followed by "Ballads and Other Poems" in 1841, which featured "The Village Blacksmith" and "The Wreck of the Hesperus."

Perhaps his most famous work, "The Song of Hiawatha," published in 1855, is an epic poem that draws on Native American legends. Another significant work, "Evangeline," tells the poignant story of an Acadian girl during the Great Upheaval. Longfellow's ability to weave narrative and emotion into his poetry made his works resonate with a wide audience.

Impact and Legacy

Longfellow's impact on American literature is profound. He was one of the first American poets to gain international fame, and his works were translated into multiple languages. His poetry, characterized by its melodic quality and accessible themes, helped to shape the American literary identity during the 19th century.

Longfellow's influence extended beyond literature. He was a cultural ambassador who introduced American readers to European literary traditions and vice versa. His translations of works such as Dante's "Divine Comedy" made significant contributions to the appreciation of world literature in America.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is widely quoted and remembered for his ability to capture universal human experiences in his poetry. His works often explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, resonating with readers across generations. Phrases from his poems, such as "Footprints on the sands of time" and "Into each life some rain must fall," have entered the common lexicon, reflecting his enduring influence.

Longfellow's legacy is also preserved through his role as a bridge between cultures and his contributions to the development of American poetry. His ability to blend narrative storytelling with lyrical beauty ensures that his works continue to be celebrated and quoted, keeping his memory alive in the hearts of readers worldwide.