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George Gordon Byron, more commonly known as Lord Byron (1788-1824), was a prominent figure of the Romantic movement, renowned for his flamboyant and controversial lifestyle as much as his substantial body of work. Byron's poetic style captivated the early 19th-century literary scene with its expressive and emotive quality, often infused with a sense of melancholia and a rebellious spirit. His seminal work 'Childe Harold's Pilgrimage' (1812-1818) stands as a cornerstone of Romantic literature, exemplifying the Byronic hero through its reflective and disillusioned protagonist who wanders Europe. This work, alongside others such as 'Don Juan' and 'Manfred', showcases Byron's masterful use of narrative and satirical verse, often reflecting his own experiences and brooding persona. His influence extended beyond literature; Byron's political activism and support for countries seeking liberation, like Greece, earned him a heroic status (Marchand, Leslie A. 'Byron: A Biography'). The complexity of his character and the lyrical prowess of his poetry continue to fascinate readers and scholars alike, cementing his legacy as one of the English language's most notable and enigmatic poets.
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