Description:
(17th Century English Poet Who is Considered the Preeminent Representative of the Metaphysical Poets)
John Donne was a famous English poet, satirist, lawyer and priest of his time. Although he is best remembered as the founder of metaphysical school of poetry, he was also one of the foremost preachers of his time in the whole of England. Born into a recusant Roman Catholic family of Welsh descent, he later moved to the Anglican Church and was appointed the Chief Secretary to the Lord Keeper of the Great Seal. However, his secret marriage to his employer’s niece not only caused him to lose his job, but it also ruined his scope for holding any other public position. Therefore, he had to live in abject poverty for about a decade. His fortunes turned when his anti-Catholic polemic ‘Pseudo-Martyr’ was published in 1610. It not only helped him to receive patronage of great noblemen like Sir Robert Drury of Hawsted, but also the favor of King James I, and after his death of King Charles I. Ultimately, he joined the Church of England at the King’s behest and within seven years, became the Dean of St. Paul’s Cathedral, London. All along he continued his literary pursuits. His works, noted for strong sensual style, continue to influence English poets even now.
Birthday
January 22, 0 (Aquarius)
Born In
England
City
London, England
Died on
March 31, 0
Spouse/Ex-
Anne More
Children
Bridget, Constance, Elizabeth, Francis, George, John, Lucy, Margaret, Mary, Nicholas
Relatives
Henry, Katherine, Mary
What are some common themes in John Donne's poetry?
Some common themes in John Donne's poetry include love, religion, death, and the exploration of human emotions.
How did John Donne's works reflect the Baroque style of writing?
John Donne's works reflected the Baroque style through their use of elaborate metaphors, complex imagery, and a focus on the interplay between the physical and spiritual realms.
What impact did John Donne have on metaphysical poetry?
John Donne is considered one of the founders of metaphysical poetry, as his works introduced innovative themes, complex imagery, and intellectual exploration to the genre.
How did John Donne's religious conversion influence his poetry?
John Donne's religious conversion from Catholicism to Anglicanism significantly influenced his poetry, leading to a deeper exploration of faith, salvation, and divine love in his works.
What is the significance of John Donne's use of conceits in his poetry?
John Donne's use of conceits, or extended metaphors, in his poetry helped him to explore complex themes and emotions in a unique and imaginative way, setting him apart from his contemporaries.
