Born in London, Bulwer-Lytton was one of the most popular writers of the 19th century. His work spanned a wide range of genres, including the historical novel with 'The Last Days of Pompeii' and 'Rienzi, the Last of the Tribunes', the gothic novel with 'Zicci', and the social novel with 'Pelham'. He also wrote poetry and plays, with 'Richelieu' and 'The Lady of Lyons' being notable examples. As a politician, he was a Member of Parliament and Secretary of State for the Colonies. Despite his popular success, literary critics often considered him verbose and melodramatic. He passed away in Torquay, England.