Edward Fairfax facts for kids
Edward Fairfax (born around 1580, died January 27, 1635) was an English writer and translator. He is famous for translating a long poem called Jerusalem Delivered by an Italian writer named Torquato Tasso. Edward Fairfax also wrote his own book about demonology.
Edward Fairfax's Life
Edward Fairfax was born around 1580. His father was Sir Thomas Fairfax the elder, who lived in Denton, Yorkshire, England. Edward was also the half-brother of Thomas Fairfax, who became the 1st Lord Fairfax of Cameron.
Edward Fairfax lived at a place called New Hall in Fewston, a village near Harrogate in Yorkshire, England. He spent much of his life there.
His Famous Translation
Edward Fairfax is most well-known for his amazing translation of Jerusalem Delivered. This was a long, epic poem written by the Italian poet Torquato Tasso. Many people think Fairfax's translation is a true masterpiece.
His translation was so good that it was considered a work of literature on its own. A famous English poet named John Dryden praised it highly. The first version of Fairfax's translation was published in the year 1600. It was dedicated to Queen Elizabeth I of England.
Other Writings
Besides his famous translation, Edward Fairfax also wrote a book about demonology. This was a topic he strongly believed in.
His Family
Edward Fairfax had daughters. Two of them, Elizabeth and Anne, were baptised in the local church in Fewston. Elizabeth was baptised in 1606, and Anne was baptised in 1621.
