Enlightenment

Reliques of Ancient English Poetry (1767)

Reliques of Ancient English Poetry (1765) is now widely believed to have presaged the ballad revival in English poetry that would play so significant a part in the Romantic Movement. Their compiler, Thomas Percy (1729–1811), sought in part to satisfy the same market for "ancient poetry" that had been enthused by Ossian. Drawn from various still extant 17th century manuscripts, Percy was careful in his editing although he did at times seek to ‘improve’ in accordance with 18th-century tastes.

Reliques of Ancient English Poetry. [edited, with Notes by Thomas Percy, Bishop of Dromore.] 3 vols. 8vo. 2nd ed. London, 1767
[Q.6.1-3]