This is a first edition copy published by Oxford University Press in 2009. 

Maurice Bowra: A Life, a first edition published by OUP in 2009, is an engrossing biography that delves into the fascinating life of Maurice Bowra, a prominent figure in the early twentieth-century Oxford academic and literary scene. Bowra's character was nothing short of extraordinary, and this biography captures the essence of a man who was, depending on one's perspective, either the most distinguished or the most notorious Oxford don of his era.

As a classicist, poet, and masterful raconteur, Bowra had the privilege of interacting with a multitude of influential individuals from various domains, including literary giants like Virginia Woolf, political figures such as Adolf Hitler and the Kennedys, and artistic luminaries like Jean Cocteau and Charlie Chaplin. His encounters with these prominent personalities are recounted in vivid detail, shedding light on the diverse tapestry of his life.

Beyond his social interactions, Bowra's life journey is a captivating exploration of how the values of Edwardian England intersected with the emerging democratic ideals of the twentieth century. This biography also delves into Bowra's innovative theories on education, which left an indelible mark on the minds of the English intellectual elite of his time.

Drawing from a wealth of interviews and previously unpublished manuscripts, "Maurice Bowra: A Life" offers a comprehensive and compelling portrait of a man who wore many hats—from a soldier on the Western Front to a celebrated wit and a complex poet. This biography immerses readers in the world of a remarkable individual whose impact on both literature and education continues to resonate.