Thomas Hardy (1840–1928) was an English novelist and poet. Despite writing numerous successful novels in his lifetime Hardy primarily considered himself a poet. His first poetry collection was not published until 1898, however before this he received praise and some fame for novels including Far from the Madding Crowd (1874), The Mayor of Casterbridge (1886) and Tess of the d’Urbervilles (1891). Hardy’s writing was greatly influenced by the Romantics, and in turn he was mentor to many young poets and was cited as an influence on Ezra Pound and W.H. Auden after his death.

Judith John (glossary) is a writer and editor specializing in literature and history. She has worked as an editor on major educational projects, including English A: Literature for the Pearson International Baccalaureate series. Judith’s major research interests include Romantic and Gothic literature, and Renaissance drama.