The Rape of the Lock

Set in the early 18th century, a scandal erupts when Lord Petre cuts a lock of hair from the beautiful Arabella Fermor, leading to societal outrage. In response, Pope crafts a mock-heroic poem to mend the rift, featuring Belinda as a central figure. Known for its lightness, elegance, and wit, the poem quickly became a classic of English literature. The newly published edition includes illustrations by Roland Pym, created in the 1980s but previously unpublished, adding a fresh visual dimension to this timeless work.