William Blake

William Blake (November 28, 1757 – August 12, 1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker who is now considered a seminal figure of the Romantic era, though he was largely unrecognized during his lifetime. Born in London, Blake combined his roles as writer and visual artist, creating illuminated manuscripts where his visionary poetry was accompanied by his own illustrations and engravings. His major works include 'Songs of Innocence and Experience', 'The Marriage of Heaven and Hell', and 'Jerusalem'. Blake's poetry explores themes of imagination, spirituality, nature, and social justice with a uniquely visionary and prophetic quality. His famous lines 'Tyger Tyger, burning bright' and 'Did those feet in ancient time walk upon England's mountains green?' have become iconic in English literature. Throughout his life, Blake remained steadfastly committed to his artistic vision, resisting the demands of commercial success and remaining true to his spiritual and radical beliefs. His integration of visual and textual art was revolutionary for his time, and his influence on Romanticism, symbolism, and modern art remains profound.