John Hudson (classicist) facts for kids
John Hudson (born in 1662, died on November 26, 1719) was an English expert in ancient Greek and Roman studies. He was born in Wythop, a small place near Cockermouth in Cumberland.
He went to The Queen's College, Oxford for his education. John Hudson spent the rest of his life working at Oxford University. His strong beliefs made it hard for him to get higher positions in the church and university.
John Hudson's Career at Oxford
In 1686, John Hudson became a Fellow at University College, Oxford. This meant he was a senior member of the college. Later, in 1701, he became the librarian of the famous Bodleian Library. This library holds many old and important books. In 1711, he became the head of St Mary Hall, Oxford.
John Hudson's Important Books
John Hudson was well-known for his work as an editor and commentator. This means he prepared and explained old texts. He was respected both in England and in other countries. His works were mainly new editions of books by ancient writers.
Here are some of his important works:
- Velleius Paterculus (published in 1693). This was an edition of a Roman historian's work.
- Thucydides (published in 1696). This was an edition of a famous Greek historian's writings.
- Geographicae Veteris Scriptores Graeci minores (published between 1698 and 1712). This large work included writings and pieces from 21 different ancient Greek authors. It also had long, detailed writings by Henry Dodwell. This book was very valuable, even though it had some mistakes. It was not replaced by a better version until Karl Wilhelm Ludwig Müller's edition came out much later.
- The first edition of Aelius Moeris' book, De Vocibus Atticis et Hellenicis (published in 1712).
- Flavius Josephus (published in 1720). This book was published after John Hudson died, by his friend Anthony Hall. It was a very accurate and well-printed edition. It included notes from different scholars and a Latin translation.
