John Keats: Biography, Major Works and Themes
John Keats (1795-1821) was an English poet associated with the Romantic period of literature. This guide gives students a clear overview of the writer's life, major works and themes.
Quick Facts
| Name | John Keats |
|---|---|
| Lived | 1795-1821 |
| Known as | An English poet |
| Period | Romantic |
Major Works
- Ode to a Nightingale
- Ode on a Grecian Urn
- To Autumn
Themes and Style
The writing of John Keats is best known for beauty, mortality and sensuous imagery. When you study these works, look at how language, structure and imagery carry those ideas.
Why Study John Keats?
John Keats is a frequent subject in school, college and university syllabuses. Knowing the context of the Romantic period helps you understand why the writer chose particular subjects and forms.
Exam Tips
- Learn two or three key quotations from Ode to a Nightingale.
- Link John Keats's ideas to the historical background of the Romantic period.
- Practise writing a short paragraph on theme, language and form.