Edwin Atherstone

Edwin Atherstone, born in 1788, was a notable English novelist and poet whose literary contributions, though once celebrated, have largely faded from public memory. His most significant work, the epic poem The Fall of Nineveh, was published in installments from 1828 to 1868. This ambitious piece spans thirty books and recounts the dramatic conflict between a coalition of nations, led by the Median prince Arbaces and the Babylonian priest Belesis, against the tyrannical Assyrian king Sardanapalus, who ultimately meets a tragic end by burning his palace.

In addition to The Fall of Nineveh, Atherstone penned several other notable works, including The Last Days of Herculaneum, Abradates and Panthea: Poems (1821), A Midsummer Day's Dream: a Poem (1824), and Israel in Egypt: a Poem (1861). His close friendship with painter John Martin resulted in a collaboration that brought Martin's famous painting, The Fall of Nineveh, to life, further intertwining their artistic legacies.

Atherstone also ventured into novel writing, producing The Sea Kings in England, which explores the Viking invasion during the reign of King Alfred the Great, and The Handwriting on the Wall. His theatrical works were published posthumously by his daughter, Mary Elizabeth Atherstone, in 1888, ensuring that his creative spirit continued to resonate even after his passing.