Alexander Pope

Alexander Pope was an influential English poet born in 1688, known for his sharp wit and masterful use of the heroic couplet. Growing up in a Catholic family at a time when Catholics faced discrimination, Pope faced numerous challenges that shaped his writing style and themes. His works often reflect a keen observation of human nature, society, and the follies of mankind, allowing readers to connect deeply with his insights. He became a central figure of the Augustan age, celebrated for his satirical works and translations, particularly of Homer’s epics.

Pope’s poetry, including famous pieces like "The Rape of the Lock" and "An Essay on Criticism," showcases his ability to blend humor and moral reflection, making him a timeless figure in English literature. His keen observations and elegant language invite readers to ponder life's complexities with both seriousness and levity. As you explore his work in this app, you’ll find a delightful mix of sharp commentary and lyrical beauty that continues to resonate with audiences today.

An Essay on Man

Read by Martin Geeson


Alexander Pope



Pope’s Essay on Man, a masterpiece of concise summary in itself, can fairly be summed up as an optimistic enquiry into mankind’s place in th…

The Rape of the Lock

Read by Rhonda Federman


Alexander Pope



The Rape of the Lock is a mock-heroic narrative poem written by Alexander Pope, first published anonymously in Lintot's Miscellany in May 17…

An Essay on Criticism

Read by Aringguth


Alexander Pope



An Essay on Criticism was the first major poem written by the English writer Alexander Pope (1688-1744). However, despite the title, the poe…

Solitude (Pope)

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Alexander Pope



LibriVox volunteers bring you 17 different recordings of Solitude by Alexander Pope. This was the weekly poetry project for the week of Febr…

An Essay on Criticism (version 2)

Read by cwanki


Alexander Pope



The title, An Essay on Criticism hardly indicates all that is included in the poem. It would have been impossible to give a full and exact i…

Epigram, engraved on the Collar of a Dog

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Alexander Pope



LibriVox volunteers bring you 15 recordings of Epigram by Alexander Pope. This was the Weekly Poetry project for August 8th, 2010.

Ode on Solitude

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Alexander Pope



LibriVox volunteers bring you 16 recordings of Ode on Solitude by Alexander Pope.This was the Weekly Poetry project for September 12, 2021. …

In Imitation of E. of Dorset: Artemisia

Read by LibriVox Volunteers


Alexander Pope



LibriVox volunteers bring you 13 recordings of In Imitation of E. of Dorset: Artemisia by Alexander Pope.This was the Fortnightly Poetry pro…

Fugitive Pieces

Read by Alan Mapstone


Alexander Pope



Alexander Pope was an English poet, playwright and literary critic best known for his satires like The Dunciad and The Rape of the Lock. Thi…