History and Travel:
* The Discoverie of the Large, Rich, and Beautiful Empire of Guiana (1596): This book recounts Raleigh's expedition to Guiana in search of El Dorado, a legendary city of gold. It is considered a significant work of early exploration literature.
* The History of the World (1614): This unfinished work, published after Raleigh's execution, is a vast historical chronicle covering ancient civilizations, the Bible, and the early history of Christianity. It is renowned for its detailed accounts and insightful analysis.
Poetry:
* The Ocean to Cynthia (1591): A collection of sonnets dedicated to his wife, Elizabeth Throckmorton. These sonnets are known for their passionate language and imagery.
* A History of the World (1614): This book also contains Raleigh's poetry, including the famous lines "What is our life? A play of passion."
Other Writings:
* The Prerogative of Parliaments (1628): A political treatise that argued for the rights and powers of the English Parliament.
* Maxims of State (1641): A collection of short sayings and observations on politics, government, and human nature.
In addition to these major works, Raleigh also wrote numerous letters, essays, and other shorter pieces.
It's important to note that many of Raleigh's writings were either lost or destroyed after his execution. However, his surviving works continue to be studied and appreciated for their historical significance and literary merit.