Giles Fletcher, the Elder facts for kids
Giles Fletcher, the Elder (born around 1548 – died 1611) was an English poet and a special messenger for his country. He was also a member of the English Parliament, which is like a government assembly.
Giles Fletcher was the son of Richard Fletcher, who was a vicar (a type of priest) in a town called Bishop's Stortford.
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Early Life and Education
Giles Fletcher was born in Watford, which is in Hertfordshire, England. He spent his early years in Cranbrook. Around 1561, he started studying at Eton College, a famous school.
After Eton, he went to King's College, Cambridge, a well-known university. He became a fellow (a kind of academic staff member) there in 1568. He earned his first university degree, a Bachelor of Arts, in 1569 or 1570.
While at Cambridge, Giles studied Greek and poetry. He even helped translate some speeches by a famous Greek speaker named Demosthenes. He continued his studies and later earned a special law degree called a Doctor of Civil Law.
Family Life
In 1581, Giles Fletcher decided to get married. He married Joan Sheafe on January 16 in his father's church. Because he got married, he had to leave his position as a fellow at King's College.
After getting his law degree, Giles and Joan settled in Cranbrook. Their first child, a son named Phineas Fletcher, was born on April 8, 1582. Phineas also grew up to be a poet, just like his father.
Career in Government
Giles Fletcher became involved in government work. In 1584, he was chosen to be a member of the English Parliament. He represented a town called Winchelsea. This was an important step in his career.
During his time in Parliament, he worked on several important committees. In 1586, he got a job as the Remembrancer for the City of London. This role involved keeping important records and advising the city. He held this job for many years, until 1605.
Ambassador to Russia
One of Giles Fletcher's most important roles was as an ambassador to Russia in 1588. An ambassador is a special representative sent by one country to another. His mission was to renew a trade agreement with the Russian ruler, tsar Feodor I of Russia.
Before he left for Russia, Queen Elizabeth I gave him another important title: Master of Requests. When he returned, Fletcher wrote a book called Of the Russe Common Wealth (published in 1591). This book gave a detailed look at what Russia was like before the year 1600.
His Poetry
Giles Fletcher is also known for his poetry. His most famous collection of poems is called Licia. He is remembered as an important English poet and diplomat from the 16th century.
Images for kids
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Giles Fletcher, The History of Russia title page, 2nd Ed. (1643)
