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William Blake Research Paper

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TEACHER NAME HERE
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13 April 2017
From the Worst of Times to the Best
One cannot simply stick William Blake into a box. From writing and printmaking, to painting and engraving, Blake is known for his eclectic works which also cover a variety of subjects. His interests in religion and politics are seen in some of his famous pieces such as “David Delivered Out of Many Waters”,” “Jerusalem,” and America a Prophecy. Blake’s genius was molded by his faith, childhood, love of renaissance art, family, and the critical time period in which he inherited and has transcended time to influence countless in the following generations. ("William Blake” Biography.com)
The artist William Blake was born in 1757 in London England. …show more content…

Though not recognized in his time, it is easy to see Blake’s influences in society even today. Movements such as the hippies, famous for flower power and their pacifist stance are labeled by some as the new romantics; surely this sect would not exist today, if not for the influence of the romantic era and William Blake himself. Singers and bands such as Bob Dylan, The Beatles, and Bono and U2 all have been influenced musically by Blake and have written songs which include excerpts of Blake’s writing. Finally the country of the United States and its status as a democracy can be seen as a direct influence of William Blake. Blake was among the first to speak out against tyranny and encourage democracy. The very existence of the United States is owed to his courage and genius to intelligently and loudly speak out on what he believes in. (“William Blake: Influence and References in Popular …show more content…

His resilience and confidence in self seem nearly impossible. I cannot imagine the feelings of isolation Blake must have faced as he was not only underappreciated for his work, but labeled insane for it. As I navigate my way through young adulthood, it is difficult for me to keep a straight moral compass without encouragement from peers, parents, or mentors. I envy Blake’s self-efficacy and his perseverance. His ability to eloquently speak his mind in situations where it was unpopular is the brand of crazy that lights fires and starts movements.

Works Cited
"Biography of William Blake." The Literature Network: Online Classic Literature, Poems, and Quotes. Essays & Summaries. C.D. Merriman, n.d. Web. 16 Mar. 2017.
Felluga. "Joseph Viscomi, “Blake’s Invention of Illuminated Printing, 1788″." BRANCH. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr. 2017
"Jerusalem Quotes by William Blake." By William Blake. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr. 2017.
"William Blake." Biography.com. A&E Networks Television, 08 Dec. 2014. Web. 12 Apr. 2017.
"William Blake." Poets.org. Academy of American Poets, 17 June 2016. Web. 16 Mar. 2017.
“William Blake: Influence and References in Popular Culture”. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr. 2017.
"William Hayley." Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 09 Feb. 2007.
"Jerusalem Quotes by William Blake." By William Blake. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Apr.

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