author
George Ticknor
1791–1871
A pioneering American scholar who helped bring modern language study to Harvard, he became one of the early United States experts on Spanish literature. His books, travels, and wide circle of literary friends made him an important figure in 19th-century intellectual life.
3 Audiobooks
History of Spanish Literature, vol. 3 (of 3)
by George Ticknor
History of Spanish Literature, vol. 1 (of 3)
by George Ticknor
History of Spanish Literature, vol. 2 (of 3)
by George Ticknor
About the author
Born in Boston on August 1, 1791, George Ticknor studied at Dartmouth, briefly trained for the law, and then turned toward literature and scholarship. After further study in Europe, he returned to the United States and joined Harvard, where he taught French and Spanish and pushed for a broader, more modern curriculum.
Ticknor is especially remembered for his work in Hispanic studies. His History of Spanish Literature became a landmark work for English-speaking readers, helping introduce Spanish writing to a wider audience and establishing his reputation as a serious literary historian.
Beyond the classroom, he was active in Boston's literary and cultural world. He traveled widely, built an important library, and later supported the Boston Public Library, to which he gave a major collection of Spanish and Portuguese books. He died on January 26, 1871.