First published in 1962, Mr Swift and his Contemporaries, is the first of three volumes providing a detailed exploration of the events of Swift’s life. This volume is a thorough insight into the historical and social setting of Swift’s life, the evolution of his character, and the composition and interpretation of his works. It includes a wealth of material concerning Swift’s family and career, his emotional and sexual life, his relationship with Sir William Temple, and the design and meaning of both A Tale of a Tub and The Battle of the Books. Mr Swift and his Contemporaries is ideal for anyone with an interest in Swift’s life, work, and the period in which he lived.