John Donne - Life Flashcards
Birth and death dates
1572 - 1631
What is he considered as?
the founder of the metaphysical school of poetry
What religion was he born into and what was it’s status at that time?
a recusant Roman catholic family when the practice of Catholicism was illegal in England at the time
Talk about Donne’s experience at Cambridge university.
He couldn’t graduate because as a Catholic, he refused to take the Oath of Allegiance to Elizabeth I as his allegiance lay with the Pope.
What did Donne do in 1596?
His thirst for adventure led him to go with the Earl of Essex on an expedition to Cadiz
What happened later in 1596, what did this lead to?
He became secretary to Lord Keeper, Thomas Egerton
and later in 1601 eloped with Egerton’s niece (Anne More). Their wedding ruined Donne’s career and Egerton sent him to prison.
What happened to Donne when he was released from prison?
He lived in poverty for several years poverty.
But during this time he wrote some of his most beautiful poems (many of which were believed to have been written to his wife)
These were known as his youthful love lyrics.
What did Donne do in 1615?
He committed apostasy (gave up his Catholic faith) and entered the Anglican Church.
How was Donne’s status lifted after committing an apostasy?
He undertook a meteoric rise and soon became Dean of Saint Paul’s Church.
He became the most famous preacher during the time, writing many religious sermons and poems. There are reports of thousands queuing to listen to his sermons
