Elizabeth Burnett facts for kids
Elizabeth (Eliza) Burnett (1766 – 17 June 1790) was a famous beauty in Edinburgh, Scotland, during the late 1700s. She was the younger daughter of James Burnett, Lord Monboddo, who was a Scottish judge and thinker.
Eliza is remembered because the famous Scottish poet Robert Burns wrote about her. He mentioned her in his poem "Address to Edinburgh" (1786). After she passed away at just 24 years old from a serious illness called consumption (also known as tuberculosis), Burns wrote another poem, "Elegy on The Late Miss Burnet of Monboddo" (1791), in her memory.
You can find a drawing of Miss Elizabeth Burnett at the National Gallery of Scotland. You can see it online here.
Early Life and Family
Elizabeth Burnett was likely born at Monboddo House in Kincardineshire, Scotland. This was her family's home. Sadly, her mother, who was also named Elizabeth, died soon after Eliza was born.
Connection with Robert Burns
It is believed that Elizabeth met the poet Robert Burns in Edinburgh. They may have first met in the lobby of the Canongate Theatre. Their friendship grew after another meeting in Aberdeen.
In 1786, Robert Burns wrote about Elizabeth in his poem "Address to Edinburgh." He described her as "heavenly Miss Burnet." He also added a note saying that she was incredibly beautiful, graceful, and good. He even compared her to Milton's Eve, saying nothing like her had been created since.
Burns wrote his "Elegy on The Late Miss Burnet of Monboddo" in 1791. This poem was a tribute to her after her early death.
Burial and Legacy
Elizabeth Burnett is buried in Greyfriars Kirkyard in Edinburgh. This graveyard is close to Edinburgh Castle. She is buried with her father, Lord Monboddo, whom she passed away before. Their graves are not marked, but they are in the burial area of Patrick Grant of Elchies.
A picture of a young woman, thought to be Elizabeth, was made in 1814. This picture is kept at the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway, Scotland. The current leader of the Burnett family, James Burnett of Crathes Castle, believes there might be a lost painting of Elizabeth somewhere.
