This anthology investigates the historical development and thematic breadth of English religious poetry from the Middle Ages to the early twentieth century. Lord David Cecil, a noted biographer and literary critic, curates this collection to demonstrate the evolution of Christian thought as expressed through verse. By selecting works that reflect both personal devotion and theological inquiry, Cecil provides a comprehensive overview of the tradition within the English language.

Critics and scholars frequently cite this volume as a standard reference for those interested in the history of religious literature. Readers often note the scholarly rigor of Cecil's selection process and the historical value of the included texts.