George Edward Ayscough facts for kids
George Edward Ayscough was an English writer and traveler who passed away on October 14, 1779. He was known for writing plays and sharing stories about his journeys.
About George Edward Ayscough
George Edward Ayscough was the son of Dr. Francis Ayscough, who was a church leader called the Dean of Bristol. His mother was the sister of a famous person named Lord Lyttelton. For a while, George Edward Ayscough was also an officer in a special army unit called the Guards.
His Play: Semiramis
In 1776, Ayscough wrote a play called Semiramis. It was based on an older play by a French writer named Voltaire. His play was performed at the famous Drury Lane Theatre in London.
A well-known actor, Richard Yates, played the main character. Another famous writer, Richard Brinsley Sheridan, wrote a special ending speech for the play. Semiramis was shown eleven times, which was a good number for a play back then.
On the first night, Ayscough's fellow officers from the Guards came to support him. Their strong presence helped make the play a success.
Travels and Other Works
Later in his life, George Edward Ayscough left England because he was not feeling well. He traveled to Italy and later wrote a book about his experiences there.
He also worked as an editor. In 1774, he helped publish the collected writings of his uncle, Lord Lyttelton. These writings were called the Miscellaneous Works.
