Jonathan Swift, a Hypocrite Reversed

It is the aim of this biography to offer a new, comprehensive view of Swift and his writings. For years, biographies of the Dean were bedeviled by legends of his madness and by romantic mysteries surrounding his relationship. Post-war scholarship has swept all this away, and has provided a factual basis for a much clearer understanding of both his life and work. Dr. Nokes presents a portrait of Swift in his multifarious roles as satirist, politician, churchman, and friend. In particular, he seeks to re-establish a proper balance between Swift's public and private lives. -- From publisher's description.