Brahma in the West

The influence of the Oriental Renaissance, particularly the British discovery of Hindu literature, profoundly shaped William Blake's poetry. David Weir explores how Blake's mythic system is rooted in the rich historical context of the eighteenth century, which includes republican politics and dissenting theology. This interplay illuminates the complexities of Blake's work and its intellectual vigor. Weir illustrates how Blake's engagement with Hindu mythology led to a significant evolution in his poetic career, fostering a system that challenged the established authorities of Church and King.