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Day 15 - Harvard Classics - 90 Day Challenge





Feb 26: HUGO'S PREFACE TO CROMWELL

A David Who Side-stepped Goliath

Hugo was insulted by the most powerful critics in France. He
put into the preface of a play "his sling and his stone" by which
others might slay "the classical Goliath."

Read: HUGO'S PREFACE TO CROMWELL .....  Vol. 39, pp. 337-349



Feb 27: LONGFELLOW'S POEMS

Poet Apostle of Good Cheer

"Tell me not in mournful numbers, life is but an empty dream . . ."
"Stars of the summer night! Far in yon azure deeps—"
So begin poems that have charmed and cheered thousands.

Read from LONGFELLOW'S POEMS ..........   Vol. 42, pp. 1264-1280



Feb 28: Montaigne's ESSAYS

Spoke Latin First

Proficient in Latin even before he knew his own tongue, Montaigne
received an unusual education. His whole life was spent
in storing up his choice thoughts for our profit and pleasure.

Read from Montaigne's ESSAYS ......................  Vol. 32, pp. 29-40



Feb 29: HERMANN AND DOROTHEA

Goethe's Tale of a Maiden in Love

To either Saint Patrick or the Scottish Parliament of 1228 go
the honors—or dishonors—of originating the traditions attending
this day; says the latter, "ilka maiden ladee, of baith high and
lowe estait, shall hae libeitie to speak ye man she likes."
 The
course of true love runs smooth in Goethe's narrative poem, enduring
today for its characterization and swift-flowing lines.

Begin HERMANN AND DOROTHEA .............  Vol. 19, p. 337; also pp. 395-410