William Blake 
Europe A Prophecy 
With the Original Illustrations by William Blake

William Blake’s ‘Europe A Prophecy’ is a visionary poetic work that explores the socio-political landscape of Europe during the 18th century. Through rich imagery and symbolic language, Blake presents a prophetic narrative that reflects his concerns about the rise of industrialism and its impact on society. The poem is characterized by its complex mythological references and allegorical storytelling, making it a challenging yet rewarding read for those interested in Romantic literature. ‘Europe A Prophecy’ is considered a pivotal work in Blake’s poetic oeuvre, showcasing his unique blend of mysticism, radical politics, and artistic innovation. The poem touches on themes of revolution, oppression, and the cyclical nature of history, making it a timeless commentary on human nature and society.

About the author

William Blake (1757–1827) was a seminal figure in the history of the poetry and visual arts during the Romantic Age in England. Born in London, he began his artistic career as an engraver but is celebrated today for his poetic and mystical abilities. Blake combined his talents in both texts and accompanying illustrations, believing that visual and literary arts were inherently connected and served to enhance each other. He created a method of printing his works that allowed him to produce the illustrations and the text simultaneously, which he called ‘illuminated printing.’ Among his extensive repertoire, ‘Europe A Prophecy’ (1794) stands out as part of his prophetic books which convey his idiosyncratic and esoteric mythologies, reflecting his views on society, politics, and the human condition. Blake’s work was not widely recognized during his lifetime, but he is highly regarded today for his expressiveness and creativity, as well as his philosophical and mystical thoughts. His style is distinguished by its symbolism, strong emotional undertones, and sometimes unorthodox use of mythology. Although his work was once considered obscure, Blake is now appreciated for his visionary qualities, and his poetry, in particular, is acclaimed for its originality, metaphoric richness, and depth of thought.