Ralph Robinson (humanist) facts for kids

Ralph Robinson (born 1520, died 1577) was an English scholar and writer. He is most famous for translating a very important book called Utopia into English. The book was originally written in Latin in 1516 by Sir Thomas More.

Ralph Robinson's Early Life and Education

Ralph Robinson went to Stamford School in Lincolnshire. He later studied at Corpus Christi College, Oxford. At school, he was a classmate of William Cecil. William Cecil later became Lord Burghley, a very important advisor to Queen Elizabeth I. Robinson mentioned their school days in the introduction of his Utopia translation. He dedicated the book to Burghley.

Robinson earned his first degree (B.A.) in 1540. He became a fellow (a kind of academic position) at Corpus Christi College in 1542. He later moved to London. There, he joined the Goldsmiths' Company. He also got a small job as a clerk for his friend, William Cecil. Robinson came from a poor family. He often had to help his relatives who were also struggling financially.

Ralph Robinson's Utopia Translation

Robinson's English translation of Utopia was first published in 1551. A second, updated version came out in 1556. The first edition was published by Abraham Veal. The second edition did not include the special letter to William Cecil.

Later editions of the book were published in 1597 and 1624. The 1624 edition was dedicated to Cresacre More. Other people also translated Utopia after Robinson. These included Gilbert Burnet in 1684 and Arthur Cayley in 1808. Robinson's translation was very important because it made Utopia available to many more English readers.