Abstract
"The third great epic, Tristram, which was to complete the Arthurian trilogy, so majestically and movingly interpreted the world-famous medieval romance that the outstanding excellence of Robinson's verse, thus far ignored by the large reading public, forced themselves into recognition, and he, after thirty years' patient waiting and unflagging trust in his own genius, at last was greeted with universal applause. Although America in the interval had witnessed an exceptional efflorescence of good poetry, he was hailed, not only as the dean, but as the prince of American bards." | The writer, who considers this statement as valid, bases her thesis on the premise that Robinson did appeal to the modem reader. She aims, first, through a study of the poet in general, to show how he appealed to the public. Because Tristram is classed as a medieval character, she will consider the possible origin of the story. Since a number of authors of note have presented the character, Tristram, it will be necessary to consider how they interpreted this character. Then, it will be necessary to show whether Robinson contributed anything new to the interpretation of Tristram.