Matthew Arnold

Matthew Arnold (1822-1888) was a prominent English poet, essayist, and cultural critic, known for his keen insights into the social and moral issues of his time. Born into a distinguished family—his father was the headmaster of Rugby School—Arnold was steeped in the traditions of education and literature from a young age. His poetry often reflects a deep contemplation of faith, culture, and the human condition, with notable works such as "Dover Beach" and "Thyrsis" capturing the essence of his introspective style. Beyond poetry, Arnold's essays on education and culture, particularly his influential work "Culture and Anarchy," continue to resonate, inviting readers to reflect on the complexities of modern society.

Arnold's writing is characterized by its lyrical beauty and profound philosophical inquiries, making his works compelling for anyone interested in the interplay between art and life. As you navigate the collection of his writings in the app, you'll find a thoughtful exploration of themes that remain relevant today. So, settle in and immerse yourself in the eloquence and depth of Matthew Arnold's literary contributions—there's much to discover in his thoughtful reflections on the world around us.

Culture and Anarchy

Read by Nicole Lee 4.6
Culture and Anarchy is a series of periodical essays by Matthew Arnold, first published in Cornhill Magazine 1867-68 and collected as a book…

In Harmony with Nature

Read by LibriVox Volunteers 3
In Harmony with Nature is a reflective exploration of the relationship between humanity and the natural world, penned by the esteemed Britis…

Balder Dead (version 2)

Read by Thomas A. Copeland 4.5
The poem begins with the beloved god Balder, thought to be invulnerable, dead at the hands of the inoffensive blind god Hoder, in a game. L…

Balder Dead

Read by Nathan 3
"Balder Dead" is a beautiful epic poem by Matthew Arnold. It draws from Norse mythology to retell the story of the the death of Od…

Sohrab and Rustum: An Episode

Read by Thomas A. Copeland 4.3
A young soldier born among Tartars but sired by the mighty Persian lord Rustum, serves in the Tartar army, seeking his great father. To this…

Growing Old

Read by LibriVox Volunteers 2.8
Growing Old is a reflective exploration of the passage of time and the inevitability of aging, penned by the esteemed British poet and cultu…

Tristram and Iseult & Sohrab and Rustum

Read by Nathan 2
Tristam & Iseult is a narrative poem containing strong romantic and tragic themes: and was first published in 1852 by Matthew Arnold. Th…

Dover Beach

Read by LibriVox Volunteers 4.1
LibriVox volunteers bring you 9 different recordings of Dover Beach, by Matthew Arnold. This was the weekly poetry project for the week of A…

The Lake

Read by LibriVox Volunteers 5
Matthew Arnold was an English poet and cultural critic who worked as an inspector of schools. Matthew Arnold has been characterised as a sag…

Austerity Of Poetry

Read by LibriVox Volunteers 2.7
Matthew Arnold was an English poet and cultural critic who worked as an inspector of schools. He has been characterised as a sage writer, a…

Tristram and Iseult and other poems

Read by LibriVox Volunteers
The English poet and cultural critic Matthew Arnold was the son of the headmaster of Rugby School who became a fellow of Oriel College, Oxfo…

Quiet Work

LibriVox volunteers bring you 12 recordings of Quiet Work by Matthew Arnold.This was the Weekly Poetry project for May 3, 2026. ------Mat…