James Fawcett (professor) facts for kids

James Fawcett (1752–1831) was an English clergyman, which means he was a leader in the church. He was also a professor at the famous University of Cambridge. From 1795 to 1815, he held an important position there called the Hulsean Professor of Divinity. This role meant he taught about religious studies and theology.

Life and Learning

Early Years and Schooling

James Fawcett was born in 1752 in Leeds, Yorkshire, England. His father, Richard Fawcett, was a church leader in Leeds. From a young age, James was not very strong physically. He attended Leeds Grammar School, where he did very well. After finishing school, he went to St. John's College, Cambridge, in 1770.

In 1774, James earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). He was a top student, ranking fifth in his class. He also won a special prize in 1776. In 1777, he completed his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree. That same year, he became a fellow of his college. This meant he was a member of the teaching staff and could live at the college.

A Professor's Journey

James Fawcett became a preacher in 1782, giving sermons at the university. He published these sermons in a book in 1794. Around this time, he was also chosen by the local people to be the vicar (a type of church leader) of St. Sepulchre's Church in Cambridge. This church is also known as the Round Church.

In 1795, James was chosen for a very important role: the Norrisian Professor of Divinity. This meant he was a leading teacher of religious studies at Cambridge University. Even though his sermons and lectures were considered excellent and correct, they didn't always attract large crowds of students. He had a slight speech difficulty and was a bit shy in front of many people. This made his lectures less lively, even though the content was very good.

Later Years and Retirement

James mostly lived at the university college until 1801. Then, his college gave him a new job as a rector (another type of church leader) for two churches in Norfolk: Thursford and Great Snoring. After this, he split his time between his church in Norfolk and the university. He was allowed to keep his rooms at the college so he could continue teaching his lectures.

In 1815, he stopped being the Norrisian Professor. In 1822, he also left his church job in Cambridge. From then on, he lived only at his rectory in Norfolk. James Fawcett passed away there on April 10, 1831.

See also

• Leeds Grammar School