John Bracegirdle facts for kids
John Bracegirdle (died 1613–1614) was an English clergyman and a poet. He lived during a time when England was undergoing many changes. He is known for his translation of an important philosophical work into English.
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Who Was John Bracegirdle?
John Bracegirdle was an English clergyman, which means he was a leader in the church. He was also a poet, someone who wrote poems. He lived in the late 1500s and early 1600s.
His Early Life and Education
John Bracegirdle started his studies at Queens' College, Cambridge in December 1588. He was a "sizar" there, which meant he received financial help for his education. In return, he often helped with duties around the college. He earned several degrees from Cambridge University:
- He received his Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in 1591 or 1592.
- He then earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1595.
- Later, in 1602, he completed his Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) degree. This degree is for people studying theology, which is the study of religious faith.
A Clergyman in Rye
After finishing his studies, John Bracegirdle became a vicar. A vicar is a type of priest in the Church of England. On July 12, 1602, he was appointed to lead the church in Rye, Sussex. This appointment was made by a very important person named Thomas Sackville, Lord Buckhurst. Lord Buckhurst was a powerful nobleman and a poet himself. John Bracegirdle served as the vicar of Rye until his death. He was buried there on February 8, 1613 or 1614.
His Main Work: A Special Book
John Bracegirdle is remembered for his writing. He translated a very famous book called The Consolation of Philosophy. This book was originally written by a Roman philosopher named Anicius Manlius Torquatus Severinus Boethius. Boethius wrote it while he was in prison, and it talks about how to find comfort and meaning in life, even during difficult times.
Bracegirdle's translation was titled Psychopharmacon, the Mindes Medicine; or the Phisicke of Philosophie. He translated most of the book into "blank verse." Blank verse is a type of poetry that does not rhyme. However, he kept the original poems within the book in different rhyming styles. He dedicated this important translation to Thomas Sackville, Earl of Dorset, the same nobleman who helped him become the vicar of Rye.
