Abstract
The paper focuses on John Gibson Lockhart (1794-1854) and his infamous review of Keats's poetry. Lockhart gained both good and bad reputation during his lifetime.
On one hand, he was remembered as a mocking critic who "killed" John Keats. On the other hand, he became a praised biographer of Napoleon, Burns, and Scott.
The paper analyses different aspects of Lockhart's life and personality and attempts to explain why and how he became one of the most hated British authors. It also explores background to the Lockhart's conflict with the Leigh Hunt's circle and its outcomes.