Myles Davies facts for kids

Myles Davies was a Welsh writer who lived a long time ago, from 1662 to about 1715 or 1716. He is known for writing a book called Athenae Britannicae. This book was a collection of information about other books and writers from his time.

Early Life and Education

Myles Davies was born in a small place called Whiteford, near Holywell in Flintshire, Wales. His parents were George and Elizabeth Davies.

He went to school at the English Jesuit College in Rome, Italy. A Jesuit college is a type of school run by a Catholic religious group called the Jesuits. On April 17, 1688, he became a Roman Catholic priest. He left Rome later that year, on October 15, 1688, to work with the Jesuits back in Wales.

A Change in Beliefs

After some time, Myles Davies changed his religious beliefs. He decided to become a Protestant. This was a big change for someone who had been a Catholic priest. In 1705, he even wrote a book explaining why he made this surprising choice. The book was called The Recantation of Mr Pollett, A Roman priest.

His Writing and Books

Myles Davies was a very smart and educated person. He knew a lot about many different subjects. He was also a bit unusual in his ways.

In 1715, he published the first part of his most famous work, Athenae Britannicae. This part was called Icon Libellorum. It was a detailed history of many different pamphlets and small books. People at the time said it was full of interesting facts and information.

How He Sold His Books

Myles Davies had a very unique way of selling his books. He became what was known as a "mendicant scholar." This means he would travel around and try to sell his own books directly to people.

He would often visit the homes of wealthy people who might be interested in supporting writers. He would send in a collection of his books, sometimes even with a special poem written just for that person. He hoped to receive money or a gift in return for his work. However, he was often turned away or treated poorly when he tried to get paid or get his books back.

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