William Fraigneau facts for kids
William Fraigneau (born in 1717, died in 1788) was an important Greek professor at Cambridge University. He was known for his teaching and his work as a priest.
Early Life and Education
William Fraigneau was born in London in 1717. His family had a background from the Huguenots, who were French Protestants.
When he was 14, in 1731, William became a Queen's Scholar at Westminster School. This was a special honor for talented students. After Westminster, he went to Trinity College, Cambridge, in 1736. He studied hard and earned his first degree, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), in 1739. He then earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1743.
Becoming a Professor
After finishing his studies, William Fraigneau decided to become a priest. He was also chosen to be a fellow at Trinity College. This meant he became a member of the college's governing body.
In 1743, he was given a very special job: Regius Professor of Greek at Cambridge University. This was a top position for teaching the ancient Greek language. He held this important role for seven years, until 1750, when he decided to leave the position.
Life as a Tutor and Priest
After leaving his professorship, William Fraigneau took on a new role. He became a private tutor for the family of Frederick, Lord Bolingbroke. This meant he taught Lord Bolingbroke's children at home.
In 1758, Lord Bolingbroke helped him get a job as a priest in Battersea. Three years later, in 1761, he was given another church job in Beckenham, Kent. In 1765, he received special permission to hold both church jobs at the same time.
William Fraigneau kept both of these positions until he passed away in Brighton on September 12, 1788. People who knew him described him as "a little man of great life and vivacity," meaning he was small but full of energy and spirit.
