Charles Eliot Norton, scholar, editor, critic, teacher, and translator, was the distinguished son of a distinguished New England family. As an active and valued member of Boston's intellectual community from 1850 to 1900, Norton's influence was considerable. His scholarly interest in the fine arts and literature enabled him to make lasting contributions to the life and letters of that period, and through his work as critic, translator, and Harvard professor to make an impact on succeeding generations as well.

After graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Harvard University in 1846, Norton engaged in business pursuits for about ten years. As part of his job with the East India Company, he was sent to Madras, Calcutta, and Bombay. Returning home by way of the Suez Canal, young Norton visited North Africa, Italy, and France. During that period he also made the acquaintance of a number of important literary figures, such as the English...