Andrew Lang

Andrew Lang (1844-1912) was a Scottish polymath – a person of wide-ranging knowledge or learning. Here's a breakdown of his key achievements:

Literary Career:

• Poet, Novelist, and Literary Critic: Lang was a prolific writer who excelled in various genres. He wrote poetry, novels, and literary criticism, establishing himself as a prominent figure in British literature.
• Fairy Tale Collections: He is perhaps best known today for his influential collections of fairy tales from around the world. These collections, often titled with a color (e.g., The Blue Fairy Book), helped introduce and popularize folk tales for a wider audience.
• Translations: Lang was a skilled translator, particularly known for his translations of Homer's epic poems, the Iliad and the Odyssey.

Other Contributions:

• Anthropology: Lang had a keen interest in anthropology and contributed to the study of myths and folklore. He was a founder of the Society for Psychical Research, an organization dedicated to investigating paranormal phenomena.
• Journalist: Lang was a prominent journalist, contributing articles to various newspapers and magazines.

Legacy:

• Andrew Lang's work left a lasting impact on various fields. His fairy tale collections continue to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. His translations and literary criticism helped shape the understanding of classical and world literature.

Additional Info:

• Lang was a complex figure with sometimes controversial views. However, his vast knowledge and contributions to literature and folklore remain undeniable.
• If you'd like to delve deeper, searching online for "Andrew Lang biography" or visiting library resources can provide more detailed information about his life and works.