Crabbe, George, 1754-1832

An author known for his verse tales which bring sympathy and humor to an acute observation of human failings, Crabbe is best remembered for The Village: A Poem (1783); The Borough: A Poem (1810); and Tales (1812). Other works include Inebriety, A Poem (1775); The Candidate; A Poetical Epistle To The Authors Of Monthly Review (1780); The Library.

Cowper, William, 1731-1800

Poet who is sometimes viewed as a precursor to the Romantic poets partly for his sensitive and accurate descriptions of nature. His best known works include The Task (J. Johnson, 1785) and "The Castaway" (1803). He was subject to severe bouts of depression with a strong religious overtone for much of his life.

Covent Garden Theatre

The Theatre Royal Covent Garden opened in 1732 under the management of John Rich. While Rich was manager, David Garrick spent a season or so performing there before taking over management of the theater at Drury Lane. Rich died in 1761, and by 1767 management devolved onto George Colman the elder and Thomas Harris (died 1820). Harris became sole manager after George Colman the elder's departure in 1774 and remained active until 1809. During that time, the theater saw such acting innovations as Charles Macklin's 1773 performance as Macbeth in Scottish costume.