Rufus Wilmot Griswold

Rufus Wilmot Griswold: The Man Behind the Anthologies

Imagine a literary world where one man’s name is forever linked with controversy and criticism. That’s Rufus Wilmot Griswold, an American anthologist, editor, poet, and critic who lived from 1815 to 1857. Born in Vermont, Griswold’s life was a tumultuous mix of success and scandal, much like the weather patterns in his home state.

Early Life and Beginnings

Was Rufus Wilmot Griswold destined for literary greatness from the start? Born to Rufus and Deborah Griswold, young Rufus was raised as a strict Calvinist. His early life in Vermont set the stage for his future endeavors, but it wasn’t until he moved to Albany, New York, that his journey truly began.

Editorial Career

Griswold’s career took off when he became a journalist and editor in Philadelphia and New York City. His first major publication was The Poets and Poetry of America in 1842, an anthology that would later become infamous for its controversial content.

Rivalry with Edgar Allan Poe

Can you imagine the tension between two literary giants? Griswold and Edgar Allan Poe had a complex relationship. They initially worked together at Graham’s Magazine, but their collaboration quickly turned into a bitter rivalry. Poe’s inclusion in Griswold’s anthology was followed by harsh criticism, setting the stage for their ongoing feud.

Personal Life and Controversies

How did personal life intertwine with professional success? Griswold married three times, each marriage marked by controversy. His first wife left him after his previous divorce was almost repealed, adding another layer of drama to his already tumultuous existence.

The Poe Controversy

How did Griswold’s actions impact Edgar Allan Poe’s legacy? After Poe’s death in 1849, Griswold wrote an unsympathetic obituary and launched a campaign to harm Poe’s reputation. His controversial role as Poe’s literary executor further cemented his place in literary history.

Literary Contributions

What did Rufus Wilmot Griswold contribute to American literature? Griswold published numerous anthologies and collections, including The Poets and Poetry of America, which became a source of both pride and controversy. His work as an editor and critic was extensive, but his methods were often criticized for being manipulative.

Legacy and Impact

How is Rufus Wilmot Griswold remembered today? While Griswold’s contributions to American poetry are undeniable, his legacy is marred by the controversies surrounding his actions. His name is often associated with Poe’s as a character assassin, but not all believe that he deliberately intended to cause harm.

In conclusion, Rufus Wilmot Griswold’s life and work are a testament to the complexities of literary history. His contributions to American poetry and his controversial actions continue to fascinate scholars and readers alike. As we explore his legacy, one thing is clear: Griswold’s name will always be linked with both praise and criticism in the annals of American literature.