Thomas Bradshaw (poet) facts for kids
Thomas Bradshaw was an English poet born in 1562. He is best known for his book, The Shepherd's Starre, which was published in 1591. Thomas was baptized on September 25, 1562. His father, also named Thomas Bradshaw, was the headmaster of the King's School, Worcester. His mother was the daughter of Guthlac Edwards, who was a Member of Parliament. Thomas began studying at Brasenose College, Oxford on July 18, 1580, when he was 17 years old.
Contents
About The Shepherd's Starre
The Shepherd's Starre is Thomas Bradshaw's most famous work. It starts with a poetic introduction about a bright star in the East. This star is said to bring good news to everyone who sees its light. The book suggests the star has special powers from the four elements and four main virtues.
What's Inside the Book?
The book begins with a special message, called a dedication. This message is for two important people: Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex and Thomas Burgh, 3rd Baron Burgh. After the dedication, there's a message from Thomas Bradshaw's brother and publisher, Alexander.
The book also includes a few letters:
- One letter is from "I. M. Esquier," saying goodbye to England and to the author.
- Another letter is Thomas Bradshaw's own farewell to England and to his close friend, I. M.
- The last letter is a reply from "T. G. Esquire" to the author's farewell.
The Main Part of the Book
Most of The Shepherd's Starre is a special version of a poem by Theocritus, an ancient Greek poet. This part is called A Paraphrase upon the Third of the Canticles of Theocritus. It includes both poetry and prose (regular writing).
Thomas Bradshaw's writing style in the introduction is quite fancy and uses many complex words. This style was popular at the time and was called Euphuism. However, the part that retells Theocritus's poem is much easier and more enjoyable to read.
Finding a Copy
Copies of The Shepherd's Starre are very rare today. There is one special copy kept safe in the British Museum in London.
