"Zuleika Dobson" is a satirical novel set at Oxford University, where the beautiful Zuleika, a conjurer by profession, arrives and captivates the male population, including the Duke of Dorset. The Duke falls madly in love with her, but she remains indifferent to his feelings. In a tragic twist, the Duke decides to commit suicide to prove his love, starting a chain reaction among other male students. The novel is a critique of Edwardian Oxford and the foolishness of falling victim to unrequited love.

This anthology is a comprehensive collection that spans several centuries, showcasing the wit, humor, and satire that have been a part of English poetry. Compiled with a discerning eye for both the amusing and the poignant, it brings together a diverse range of poets, from the well-known to the obscure, each contributing to the rich tapestry of comic verse. The selection not only highlights the evolution of English comedic poetry but also offers readers an insight into the social and cultural contexts that shaped these works. Through its carefully curated content, the anthology invites readers to explore the lighter side of poetry, proving that verse can be both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.