Poetry
Read Poetry Classics in English
1,071 poetry books at CEFR A2 to C2 — learn English by reading the stories worth reading. Select any word for an instant translation, listen to the narration read the page aloud, and save the vocabulary you meet. Pick your level and start with a free sample.
What are the best poetry classics to read in English as a learner?
The best poetry classics for English learners are the well-known titles you can read in the original — start with The Milkmaid: R. Caldecott's Picture Books, The Military Adventures of Johnny Newcome: With an Account of his Campaign on the Peninsula and in Pall Mall and The Middle English Poem, Erthe Upon Erthe. Each one is labelled with a CEFR level, any word you do not know is one selection away from a translation, and the narration reads the page aloud while it highlights the words.
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Level C1PoetryThe Metamorphoses of Publius Ovidus Naso in English blank verse Vols. I & IIJourney through a world emerging from chaotic elements as gods shape earth, sea, and sky, culminating in the dawn of mankind and the golden age of innocence and harmony.
Level C1PoetryThe Metamorphoses of Ovid, Books I-VIIDive into a vivid tapestry of ancient Greek and Roman myths, where gods and mortals intertwine through tales of transformation and timeless legend.
Level C1PoetryThe Mentor: Famous English Poets, Vol. 1, Num. 44, Serial No. 44Explore the passionate lives and revolutionary spirits of six towering 19th-century English poets, from Byron’s tempestuous genius to Shelley’s soaring visions, revealing how their…
Level C1PoetryThe Melody of Earth: An Anthology of Garden and Nature Poems From Present-Day PoetsDiscover the subtle melodies of earth through a curated collection of garden and nature poems, where each verse captures the timeless harmony and inspiration found in the natural w…
Level C1PoetryThe Man of TasteExplore the satirical world where the pursuit of "taste" reveals the clash between true aesthetic appreciation and superficial ostentation, as society wrestles with the meaning, cu…
Level C1AdventureThe Man from Snowy RiverIn the rugged Australian bush, a young rider faces the challenge of taming wild horses and proving his courage among seasoned stockmen.
Level C1PoetryThe Mahogany TreeGather around the mahogany table for a spirited Bacchanalian song that celebrates friendship, mirth, and the bittersweet passage of time during a festive Christmas gathering.
Level C1PoetryThe Lyric: An EssayExplore the essence of poetry as the quest for "the best words in the best order," revealing how poets capture profound experience through language and verse.
Level C1AdventureThe Lusiad; Or, The Discovery of India, an Epic PoemEmbark on a heroic voyage tracing Portugal’s daring quest to discover India, filled with love, courage, and the fierce spirit of adventure that shapes empires and hearts alike.
Level C1PoetryThe Loving Ballad of Lord BatemanA haunting ballad unfolds through the plaintive voice of a young street singer, weaving a romantic and melancholy tale preserved in its original air and heartfelt expression.
Level C1RomanceThe Lover's Baedeker and Guide to ArcadyJourney to Arcady, a mystical land where love reigns supreme and time bends to the heart's desire, offering an enchanting exploration of romance, passion, and the alluring paths lo…
Level C1PoetryThe Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume IV.Explore the vivid lives and works of Great Britain and Ireland’s poets, from witty dramatists to celebrated authoresses, unveiling their artistic legacies alongside the social virt…
Level C1PoetryThe Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume I.Explore the fascinating origins and early life of Geoffrey Chaucer, tracing his journey from uncertain birthplaces to scholarly pursuits and courtly acclaim, revealing the foundati…
Level C1PoetryThe Little Book of Modern Verse: A Selection from the Work of Contemporaneous American PoetsExplore a curated selection of early 20th-century American poetry that captures the evolving spirit and new artistic visions of contemporary poets, offering fresh insights into lif…
Level C1HistoricalThe Literary Remains of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Volume 1Explore a rich collection of fragmented notes, manuscripts, and reflections revealing the depth of a solitary scholar’s genius.
Level C1PoetryThe Lion's Masquerade: A Sequel to The Peacock at HomeStep into a whimsical world where animals host grand masquerade balls, blending charm and satire in elegant verse and vivid engravings.
Level C1PoetryThe Life of John ClareBorn into poverty in a tiny village cottage, a gifted farm laborer rises as a celebrated poet hailed as the "Northamptonshire Peasant.
Level C1PoetryThe Life and Death of Tom Careless: to which is added, The History of Will Worthy & Nancy WilmotA lively carpenter’s reckless joy spirals into a haunting reckoning with mortality and conscience, while a newlywed’s sudden death sparks a poignant journey of grief, faith, and ho…
Level C1PoetryThe Legends of Saint PatrickCaptured by Irish pirates and sold into slavery, a young man named Succath finds faith and purpose while tending sheep in a foreign land, guided by visions and prayers that promise…
Level C1PoetryThe Legendary and Poetical Remains of John Roby: author of 'Traditions of Lancashire', with a sketch of his literary life and characterA solitary boy in Lancashire, craving companionship, finds solace in nature’s mysteries and imaginary friends, while growing up shaped by strict family ideals and a fierce thirst f…
Level C1PoetryThe Legend of the Lincoln ImpWhen a mischievous imp wreaks havoc in Lincoln Cathedral, chaos ensues until a tiny angel intervenes with a powerful curse.
Level C1PoetryThe Legend of Kupirri, or, The Red Kangaroo: An Aboriginal Tradition of the Port Lincoln TribeIn a land where ancient legends shape the wild, two hunters confront the towering and fearsome Kupirri, the great Red Kangaroo, unraveling a tale of survival, transformation, and t…
Level C1PoetryThe Lazy MinstrelA whimsical collection of poetry unfolds through charming sketches, playful songs, and lively scenes, capturing moments from leisurely days to spirited gatherings with wit and warm…
Level C1PoetryThe Lay of the Nibelung MenDive into an epic saga where gods mingle with mortals, and heroic deeds unfold amid love, betrayal, and vengeance.
Level C1RomanceThe Last West; and, Paolo's VirginiaAmid the rugged peaks and wild landscapes of the Last West, daring alpinists challenge nature’s might while a stirring romance unfolds against the backdrop of untamed beauty and th…
Level C1RomanceThe Last TournamentIn a kingdom shadowed by rivalry and loss, a precious prize ignites a tournament where loyalty, honor, and hidden truths clash among Arthur's knights, as looming threats challenge…
Level C1PoetryThe Kingdom of LoveJourney through realms where dreams, sense, wealth, and home vie for the title of the true Kingdom of Love.
Level C1PoetryThe King's Wake, and Other BalladsAt a lively wake, young Signelil defies her mother's warnings to join the dance, only to encounter the king and a deadly twist of fate.
Level C1PoetryThe Jumblies, and Other Nonsense VersesDive into a whimsical world where curious creatures embark on fanciful adventures, from sailing seas to dancing with animals, all brought to life by playful verses and charming ill…
Level C1PoetryThe Jumble Book of Rhymes: Recited by the JumblerDive into a whimsical jumble of rhymes that blend humor, candid reflection, and playful musings, capturing the highs and lows of life with a refreshingly honest voice that refuses…
Level C1PoetryThe Isle of Palms, and Other PoemsImmerse yourself in vivid landscapes and heartfelt reflections through a poetic journey across wild mountains, tranquil lakes, and rustic life.
Level C1PoetryThe Iris: An Illuminated Souvenir for MDCCCLIIExplore vivid American history and Native traditions through richly colored illustrations and original poetry that bring to life the landing of William Penn and the cultural tapest…
Level C1HistoricalThe Influence of India and Persia on the Poetry of GermanyExplore how 19th-century German poets drew inspiration from the rich literary traditions of India and Persia, revealing a profound cultural exchange that shaped their poetic imagin…
Level C1HistoricalThe Independent Statesmen, and Liberal Landlord: or a respectful tribute to T. W. Coke, M.P. for the County of NorfolkIn a candid tribute to T.
Level C1PoetryThe Iliad of HomerStep into the epic world of gods and warriors as the siege of Troy unfolds with raw passion and unyielding honor, where every clash and counsel shapes the fate of heroes and empire…
Level C1PoetryThe Hunting of the Snark: An Agony in Eight FitsEmbark on a whimsical voyage with a curious crew led by the meticulous Bellman, as they hunt the elusive and mysterious Snark in a world where nonsense and logic entwine in poetic…![Cover of The Hundred Best English Poems by Adam L. [Editor] Gowans](https://dsx1pat3ljtul.cloudfront.net/books/da70a51bccoc73elortg.webp)
Level C1PoetryThe Hundred Best English PoemsDive into a carefully curated collection showcasing a century of timeless English poetry, each piece selected for its enduring beauty and impact, from celebrated names like Shakesp…
Level C1PoetryThe Humorous Poetry of the English Language; from Chaucer to SaxeDive into a curated collection of the finest short humorous poems from England and the United States, blending wit, satire, and charm without obscenity or outdated allusions.
Level C1PoetryThe Horse Shoe: The True Legend of St. Dunstan and the Devil, Showing How the Horse-Shoe Came to Be a Charm against WitchcraftDiscover the enchanting tale behind the horse-shoe’s power as a charm against witchcraft, revealing how St.
Level C1HistoricalThe Homeric Hymns: A New Prose Translation; and Essays, Literary and MythologicalExplore the mysterious origins and varied purposes of the so-called Homeric Hymns through a new prose translation and insightful essays that delve into their literary and mythologi…
Level C1HistoricalThe Holy Isle: A Legend of Bardsey AbbeyA mystical journey transports you to Bardsey Isle a thousand years ago, where saints and monks in a radiant abbey sing eternal praises and guard a sacred legacy.
Level C1PoetryThe History of Johnny Quæ Genus, the Little Foundling of the Late Doctor Syntax.: A Poem by the Author of the Three Tours.An orphan named Johnny Quæ Genus embarks on a lively journey through varied adventures, guided by wit and chance in a vivid, illustrated poetic tale blending humor and social satir…
Level C1PoetryThe Hidden Servants and Other Very Old StoriesStep into a world where ancient Italian legends and heartfelt ballads come alive, weaving faith, beauty, and simple wisdom through vivid stories told with poetic grace.
Level C1HistoricalThe Heroic AgeExplore the origins and shared traits of heroic poetry across Teutonic and Greek cultures, uncovering their historical, mythical, and anthropological roots through a comparative st…
Level C1PoetryThe Harvard Classics, Volume 49, Epic and Saga: With Introductions And NotesIn a tale of honor and betrayal, the valiant Roland leads Charlemagne’s rear guard against overwhelming foes in the Pyrenees, while treachery and faith clash amid epic battles and…
Level C1PoetryThe Guinea Voyage: A Poem in Three Books: To Which Are Added Observations on a Voyage to the Coast of AfricaA seaman's harrowing journey exposes the brutal realities behind the slave trade along Africa’s coast, blending stirring poetry with firsthand observations to reveal the dark depth…
Level C1HistoricalThe Guards Came Through, and Other PoemsExperience the vivid pulse of wartime through stirring poems that capture the courage, humor, and resilience of soldiers and civilians amid the tumult of World War I.
Level C1PoetryThe Grey Brethren, and Other Fragments in Prose and VerseStep into a serene Quaker colony where quiet devotion and gentle spirits shape a world of peace and reflection, seen through the eyes of a child discovering faith, resilience, and…