Joseph Addison

Adam James Smith (York St John University)

Ed. by Nicholas Seager, University of Keele
The Literary Encyclopedia. Volume 1.2.1.05: English Writing and Culture from the Glorious Revolution to the French Revolution, 1689-1789.
Vol. editors: Paul Baines (University of Liverpool), Daniel Cook (University of Dundee), Pat Rogers (University of South Florida), Nicholas Seager (University of Keele)

Dates

Born 1 May 1672
Died 17 Jun 1719
Activity 1705-1719

Places

Born in England
Active in England

Activities

Primary

Essayist
Journalist

Resources

Joseph Addison’s most significant contribution to literary history is undoubtedly his collaboration with Richard Steele on The Spectator (1711-12). Addison was also a poet and a playwright, finding success in theatres with the universally praised Cato (1713). Though a convincing polymath, Addison was most accomplished as a writer and is remembered for his criticism and commentary.

Addison was born in Milston, Wiltshire, on 1 May 1672. His parents were Lancelot Addison (1632-1703), vicar of Milston, and Jane (née Gulston) (c. 1635-1684), sister to the future Bishop of Bristol. Joseph had three younger siblings: Gulston (1673-1709), Dorothy (born 1674) and Lancelot (1680-1710). Little is known of …

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2202 words

Citation: Smith, Adam James. "Joseph Addison". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 12 October 2016 [https://staging.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=36, accessed 21 November 2024.]

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