Robert Bell (writer)

Robert Bell (16 January 1800 – 12 April 1867) was an Irish journalist, editor, writer, and man of letters.

Bell was born in Cork, Ireland. He received his early education locally before entering Trinity College, Dublin. He did not complete his degree, instead moving to London to pursue a literary career.

Initially, Bell found work as a journalist and contributed extensively to various periodicals, including The Atlas, The New Monthly Magazine, and The Examiner. He became editor of The Atlas in 1828 and later held the editorship of The Monthly Chronicle from 1838 to 1841.

He is best known for his contributions to literary history and criticism. He edited a popular series of annotated editions of British poets titled Bell's Edition of the Poets (1854-1857). These editions were notable for their biographical and critical introductions to the works of poets such as Chaucer, Dryden, and Shakespeare. His other literary endeavors included writing biographies, histories, and novels. Among his historical works are A History of Russia (1836-1838) and Memorials of the Civil War (1849). He also wrote several plays, including Marriage, which was performed in London.

Bell was a prominent figure in the literary circles of his time and contributed significantly to popularizing and interpreting the works of classic English poets. He died in London in 1867.