author

Arthur Compton-Rickett

1869–1937

A lively early-20th-century literary historian, lawyer, and editor, he wrote clear, approachable books that helped introduce generations of readers to English literature. His work ranges from broad literary history to studies of major writers such as Dickens and Stevenson.

1 Audiobook

The Vagabond in Literature

The Vagabond in Literature

by Arthur Compton-Rickett

About the author

Born Arthur Rickett in Canonbury, London, on February 20, 1869, he later became Arthur Compton-Rickett after his family adopted the additional surname in 1908. He was educated at Eastbourne College, University School in Hastings, and Christ's College, Cambridge, and he also trained in law, becoming a barrister.

Alongside his legal career, he built a reputation as an author, editor, and literary historian. He is best remembered for works such as A History of English Literature and for readable studies of major authors including Charles Dickens and Robert Louis Stevenson. He also lectured in English literature for the University of London and the Oxford Delegacy, helping bring literary study to a wider public.

Compton-Rickett died on September 8, 1937. His books reflect a gift for presenting literary history in an engaging, accessible way, which is a big part of why they have remained of interest to readers and students long after his lifetime.