Description: (Journalist, Writer, Literary critic, Poet)
Rufus Wilmot Griswold was a notable American anthologist, editor, poet, and critic who made significant contributions to American literature. He curated comprehensive anthologies of American poetry that highlighted the best works of his era. Despite his literary accomplishments, Griswold faced backlash due to his harsh demeanor and controversial actions, including copyright infringements. His rivalry with Edgar Allan Poe and subsequent efforts to tarnish Poe's reputation often overshadowed his literary work. Griswold advocated for the integration of American poetry into school curricula and backed copyright legislation, despite his own questionable behaviors.