The Real Shelley. New Views of the Poet's Life. Vol. 1 (of 2)

"The Real Shelley: New Views of the Poet's Life, Vol. 1" by John Cordy Jeaffreson is a biography that looks to present a more realistic view of the poet Percy Bysshe Shelley. This book aims to correct the overly romantic portrayals of Shelley that have been created over time. It explores the factors that shaped Shelley's life, from his family and character to the misunderstandings surrounding him and his relationships. The book begins by pointing out how earlier biographers have painted a dreamy picture of Shelley, often ignoring the difficult aspects of his experiences. Jeaffreson explains that this rosy image comes from different sources, including Shelley's family trying to change his story, the enthusiastic feelings of Shelley's fans, and even socialist ideas about his beliefs. Jeaffreson argues that Shelley was a complicated person who struggled with telling the truth, faced problems at home, and often clashed with those in power. By looking closely at past biographies and studying Shelley's early life, Jeaffreson sets the stage for a deeper investigation into Shelley's real personality and the social forces that influenced him.