Thomas Brasbridge facts for kids

Thomas Brasbridge (born 1536 or 1537, died 1593) was an English Anglican church leader and writer. He lived during a time of big changes in England, especially with religion. He was known for his studies in both religion and medicine.

Brasbridge's Early Life and Education

Thomas Brasbridge was born in 1536 or 1537. His family came from Northamptonshire, a county in England. However, he spent his childhood living in Banbury, a town in Oxfordshire.

He went to Magdalen College, Oxford, a famous university college, in 1553. Later, in 1558, he became a student at All Souls' College. That same year, he earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.). In 1562, he returned to Magdalen College as a fellow, which means he was a senior member of the college. He earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1564.

Studies and Helping Others

While at Oxford, Thomas Brasbridge studied two very different subjects: religion (divinity) and medicine. This was unusual for the time. He stayed at the university during a serious outbreak of the plague from 1563 to 1564. He chose to remain and help care for those who were sick.

He tried to get a Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) degree in 1574, but it seems he did not receive it. Around 1578, he left his position at the college.

Life in London and Banbury

In 1578, Thomas Brasbridge lived in London and worked as a tutor, teaching students. Later, he moved back to Banbury. There, he became a minister in the church. He also opened a school and continued to practice medicine, helping people with their health.

One Christmas in 1588, some people from a nearby village called Wickham caused trouble for him. They did not want to go to church and preferred "dancing, or some other like pastime." These people were later questioned by important officials about why they refused to attend church services.

Brasbridge's Writings

Thomas Brasbridge wrote several books during his life. These books covered topics from religious teachings to health advice.

• Abdias the Prophet. Interpreted by T. B., Fellow of Magdalen College in Oxford (London, 1574). This book was about the biblical prophet Obadiah. He dedicated it to Henry Hastings, who was the Earl of Huntingdon.
• The Poore Man's Ievvel, that is to say, a Treatise of the Pestilence. (London, 1578). This book was like a guide for ordinary people about the plague. It also talked about the healing powers of certain plants, like Carduus Benedictus (blessed thistle) and Angelica. These plants were believed to help against the plague and other illnesses. He dedicated this book to Sir Thomas Ramsey, who was the Lord Mayor of London at the time. New versions of this book were printed in 1579 and 1580. Brasbridge released a bigger, updated version in 1592. He dedicated this new edition to Anthony Cope and his wife, Frances.
• Quæstiones in Officia M. T. Ciceronis, compendiariam totius opusculi Epitomen continentes (Oxford, 1615). This book was about the writings of the famous Roman speaker and writer, Cicero. He dedicated it to Lawrence Humphrey, who was the president of Magdalen College.