William Norcott (satirist) facts for kids

William Norcott was an Irish lawyer and writer who lived from about 1770 to 1820. He was known for writing funny and critical pieces, like a famous one called The Metropolis, which caused a lot of talk in Dublin in the early 1800s. Sadly, he faced hard times and passed away in Constantinople.

William Norcott's Early Life and Education

William Norcott was born around 1770. He went to Trinity College in Dublin, where he earned his first degree in 1795. He continued his studies, getting more advanced law degrees in 1801 and 1806.

Norcott's Legal and Writing Career

Norcott became a lawyer in Ireland in 1797. For a time, he was quite successful in his legal work. However, he enjoyed social events more than his law practice. He was well-liked in Dublin society, especially at Dublin Castle when the Duke of Richmond was in charge. People enjoyed his great skill at copying voices and actions.

William Norcott's Satirical Writings

Norcott wrote several satirical poems with his friend John Wilson Croker. These works were published in Dublin after Ireland joined with Great Britain. Some of his known works include:

• The Metropolis, a critical look at various Dublin groups, published in 1805.
• The Metropolis part 2, published in 1806.
• The Seven Thieves: A Satire, published in 1807.
• The Law Scrutiny; Or the Attornie's Guide, a satire about lawyers, published in 1807.

These books were published by John Barlow and caused a lot of discussion in Dublin. Many people wondered who the real author was. Some thought it was Norcott, while others believed it was his friends or someone else. However, several writers later confirmed that Norcott was indeed the author.

Challenges in Norcott's Career

Norcott was known for taking risks and having a difficult time with money. He soon faced financial problems. His collection of law books was sold in 1810, and his art collection was sold in 1811. Around 1815, he got a good job in Malta, thanks to his friend Croker. But he did not keep the job for long and left the island.

William Norcott's Later Life

After leaving Malta, Norcott eventually reached Smyrna in the Ottoman Empire. There, he made a living by selling goods in the streets. He then traveled to Morea and finally to Constantinople. He lived in poverty there and wrote sad letters to his friends. Around 1820, he tried to leave Constantinople. However, he was caught and passed away. Stories about his later life are shared in books by Richard Lalor Sheil and Jonah Barrington.