William Hazlitt Biography
Early Life and Education
William Hazlitt was born on April 10, 1778, in Maidstone, Kent, England. He was the kid of a Unitarian minister and spent parts of his childhood in Ireland and the United States before returning to England. Hazlitt's education was largely affected by his direct exposure to philosophical and intellectual ideas through his daddy and the Unitarian community. He went to a Unitarian seminary, Hackney College, for a time but did not complete his research studies there. His early experiences prepared for his lifelong pursuit of philosophy and literature.
Profession Beginnings and Philosophical Interests
Initially, Hazlitt desired be a painter, and in 1802, he traveled to Paris to study art and immerse himself in the works of masters like Titian and Raphael. However, he quickly discovered that his true enthusiasm lay in the written word. By the early 1800s, he had shifted his focus to composing and began making up philosophical works, essays, and reviews. His early works showed his interest in the ideas of Enlightenment thinkers, especially those of David Hartley and
John Locke.
Literary Criticism and Essays
Hazlitt's reputation as a critic and author was cemented with the publication of his major works, such as The Characters of Shakespeare's Plays (1817) and Lectures on the English Poets (1818). These works showcased his ability to mix incisive criticism with a deep gratitude for literature and art. He likewise contributed to different regulars, where his essays covered a large range of topics from politics to social concerns, showing his keen observations and passionate design.
Personal Relationships and Influences
Throughout his life, Hazlitt formed relationships with other popular literary figures of his time, including
Samuel Taylor Coleridge,
William Wordsworth, and
Charles Lamb. His relationship with Coleridge was especially substantial, as it influenced both males's concepts and writings, though it ultimately soured due to differing philosophical views and personal issues. Despite falling-outs with some contemporaries, Hazlitt preserved a robust circle of intellectual and creative good friends and acquaintances who contributed to the dynamic cultural life of early 19th-century England.
Later Life and Legacy
Later in life, Hazlitt dealt with monetary problems and personal challenges, partially due to his tempestuous relationships and a stopped working marriage. In spite of these difficulties, he continued to write prolifically. One of his substantial later works, * The Spirit of the Age * (1825), captures his reflections on the leading political and literary figures of his time. Hazlitt died on September 18, 1830, in Soho, London.
Influence and Recognition
Though he battled with acknowledgment throughout his lifetime, Hazlitt's contributions to literary criticism and essay writing have actually had a long lasting effect. His capability to interweave elements of individual reflection, sharp analysis, and significant prose has actually inspired generations of writers and critics who followed. Today, Hazlitt is considered as one of the best English authors, kept in mind for his insightful technique to literature and extensive understanding of human nature.
Our collection contains 93 quotes who is written / told by William, under the main topics:
Words of Wisdom -
Travel.
Related authors: John Locke (Philosopher), Samuel Taylor Coleridge (Poet), William Wordsworth (Poet), Sydney Smith (Clergyman), Charles Lamb (Critic), Thomas Hood (Poet), Philo (Philosopher), Lawrence Taylor (Athlete)
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Hazlitt pronunciation
A: Hazlitt is pronounced as 'HAZ-lit.' - Q: Hazlitt Economics
A: Refers to Henry Hazlitt, an economist known for his book 'Economics in One Lesson,' not William Hazlitt. - Q: Hazlitt meaning
A: Hazlitt typically refers to William Hazlitt, an English essayist, or Henry Hazlitt, an American economist. - Q: William Hazlitt death cause
A: William Hazlitt died of stomach cancer on September 18, 1830. - Q: William Hazlitt poems
A: William Hazlitt was primarily an essayist and critic, not a poet. He did not write poetry. - Q: How old was William Hazlitt?
A: He became 52 years old
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