This Day in History — Writer
May 27, 1922 — The Curious Case of Benjamin Button Published - F Scott Fitzgerald
19th Century Writers American History Author Writer
On May 27, 1922, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Curious Case of Benjamin Button was first published in Collier’s Magazine. The imaginative story of a man aging in reverse explored themes of time, identity, and society’s expectations, becoming one of Fitzgerald’s most enduring and thought-provoking works of the Jazz Age.
May 26, 1897 — Dracula Published in London - Bram Stoker
19th Century Writers Author Gothic Fiction Writer
Published on May 26, 1897, Bram Stoker’s Dracula transformed vampire folklore into one of literature’s most enduring horror stories. Blending gothic suspense with Victorian fears, the novel introduced the world to Count Dracula and forever shaped modern vampire mythology through its chilling atmosphere, memorable characters, and lasting cultural influence.
May 20, 1609 — Shakespeare’s Sonnets First Published in London
First published in London on May 20, 1609, William Shakespeare’s Sonnets became one of the most influential poetry collections in literary history. Published by Thomas Thorpe, possibly without Shakespeare’s approval, the 154 sonnets explored love, beauty, mortality, and time, showcasing the emotional depth and poetic brilliance that continue to captivate readers worldwide.
April 30, 1859 — A Tale of Two Cities Begins Serialization - Charles Dickens
19th Century Writers Author British History Writer
On April 30, 1859, Charles Dickens began publishing A Tale of Two Cities in weekly installments, captivating readers with its suspenseful storytelling. Set during the French Revolution, the novel explores themes of sacrifice and social upheaval, reflecting Victorian concerns while pioneering serialized fiction that kept audiences eagerly awaiting each new chapter.
April 27, 1667 — John Milton Sells “Paradise Lost” Copyright for £10
Author British History Poet Poetry Writer
On April 27, 1667, blind and financially struggling poet John Milton sold the copyright to Paradise Lost for just £10. Though modest at the time, the transaction became one of history’s most famous literary bargains, as the epic later rose to become one of the greatest works in English literature.