Eric Gardner Turner facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Sir Eric Gardner Turner
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| Born | 26 February 1911 |
| Died | 20 April 1983 (aged 72) |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Papyrologist, classicist |
Sir Eric Gardner Turner (born February 26, 1911, died April 20, 1983) was a very important English scholar. He was known for studying ancient writings, especially those on papyrus. This is what a papyrologist does. He also studied ancient Greek and Roman times, which is what a classicist does.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Eric Gardner Turner was born in Broomhill, Sheffield, England. He went to King Edward VII School and then to Magdalen College at Oxford University. After his studies, he began teaching.
A Career in Ancient Studies
From 1936 to 1948, Sir Eric taught classics at the University of Aberdeen. This means he taught about the ancient Greek and Roman worlds.
During World War II, from 1941 to 1945, he took a break from teaching. He worked for the Naval Intelligence Division at Bletchley Park. This was a secret place where clever people worked to break enemy codes. His work there helped the war effort.
In 1948, he joined University College, London. He became the first "Reader" in Papyrology there. A "Reader" is a senior academic position, like a professor. Two years later, in 1950, he became a full professor. He taught and researched there until he retired in 1978.
Awards and Recognition
Sir Eric Gardner Turner received special honors for his important work. In 1975, he was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE). This is a high award given by the British monarch for great service.
Later, in 1981, he was knighted. This meant he could use "Sir" before his name. He was also chosen to be a member of the American Philosophical Society. This is a group of very smart people who help advance knowledge.
His Work and Books
Sir Eric Gardner Turner spent his life studying and writing about ancient papyri. Papyri are ancient papers made from the papyrus plant. They were used for writing in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. He helped us understand more about how people lived and wrote thousands of years ago.
He wrote many books and articles about his discoveries. These books helped other scholars learn about ancient texts. His work made a big difference in the study of ancient history and languages.
