Rossetti, Dante, << roh SEHT ee, DAN tee, >> Gabriel, (1828-1882), was one of the most famous English poets and painters of the 1800’s. Rossetti was a central figure in the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, an art movement he helped found in 1848 (see Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood).
Rossetti’s poetry is noted for its unconventional and sensuous language, vivid descriptions, and fantastic and symbolic themes. In spite of his brief training as a painter, Rossetti produced many works that are noted for their rich colors and attention to detail.
Many of Rossetti’s poems and paintings were inspired by Elizabeth Siddal, whom he married in 1860. She died less than two years later, and the grief-stricken Rossetti buried the only copy of his poems with her.
Rossetti agreed in 1869 to get the manuscript from his wife’s grave. The collection was published in 1870 as Poems and made Rossetti known as a major poet. In 1881, he completed Ballads and Sonnets. Rossetti’s best-known poems include “The Blessed Damozel” (1847), “Sister Helen” (1854), and a series of love sonnets, The House of Life (1870-1881). He also translated many European works into English.
Rossetti was born on May 12, 1828, in London. His sister Christina also was a famous poet. Rossetti died on April 9, 1882.
