John Carr (writer, born 1722) facts for kids

John Carr (1722–1807) was a schoolmaster and writer from County Durham, England. Some records, like "The Bishoprick Garland" from 1834, suggest he might have been born in 1732, making him 75 years old when he passed away. He was known for his teaching and his writings, especially his translation of an ancient Greek author.

Early Life and Education

John Carr was born in Muggleswick, County Durham. This was in 1722, though some sources say 1732. His father was a local farmer.

John first went to the village school. He also received private lessons from the local priest, Rev Daniel Watson. Later, he attended St Paul’s School. He stayed there longer than most students. This was because his parents could not afford for him to go to university.

He became a teacher at Hertford Grammar School. Eventually, he earned a special degree called LL.D. from Marischal College in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Later Years and Passing

John Carr passed away on June 6, 1807. He had been ill for almost a year. He was buried in St. John’s church in Hertford. His headstone has a special message written in Latin. He wrote this message himself before he died.

His Family

John Carr's parents were William and Ann Carr. He had a younger brother named Joseph. Joseph became a priest, the Rev. Joseph Carr. He died in Allenheads, Northumberland, on April 27, 1806, at 60 years old. John also had another brother, William T. Carr. John dedicated a poem to William in his 1807 book.

John Carr was married, but his wife's name is not known. She passed away before him.

His Main Work: A Greek Translation

Perhaps John Carr's most important work was his "Translation of Lucian." Lucian was an ancient Greek writer. John spent almost 25 years working on this translation. He worked on it from 1773 to 1798.

This translation was published in five large books. At the time, people thought it was very important in the world of literature. However, its importance has lessened over time. This is because other, more classic translations have been made since then.

Other Writings

Dr. Carr thought his other writings were not very important. He called them "mere trifles." These included:

• Volume III of Tristram Shandy – This was an imitation of a famous book. It was inspired by the original by Laurence Sterne, published in 1760.
• "Filial Piety" – This was a mock heroic poem from 1763.
• "Extract of a Private Letter to a Critic" – Published in 1764.
• "Eponi-na, a Dramatic Essay" – This play was written for ladies in 1765.
• "Ode to the River Derwent" – This poem had 40 verses. It can be found in "The Bishoprick Garland" from 1834 by Sir Cuthbert Sharp.

See also

• Geordie dialect words
• Cuthbert Sharp
• The Bishoprick Garland 1834 by Sharp