Laurence Sterne

Date of Birth: November 24, 1713

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: March 18, 1768

Biography

Laurence Sterne was an Anglo-Irish novelist and clergyman, best known for his novel “The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman” and “A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy.” Born in Clonmel, County Tipperary, Ireland, Sterne was educated at Jesus College, Cambridge, and later ordained as a clergyman in the Church of England. His most famous work, “Tristram Shandy,” is celebrated for its innovative narrative techniques and its digressive style, which have influenced numerous writers and literary genres. Sterne’s writing is characterized by its wit, irony, and playful narrative structure. Despite his literary success, Sterne struggled with poor health throughout his life and passed away relatively young.

5 Interesting Facts about Laurence Sterne

1. Laurence Sterne’s novel “Tristram Shandy” is considered one of the greatest comic novels in the English language.

2. Sterne’s writing style in “Tristram Shandy” was groundbreaking for its time, often breaking the fourth wall and employing stream-of-consciousness techniques.

3. He worked as a clergyman and wrote sermons, which were well-received by his contemporaries.

4. Sterne suffered from tuberculosis for much of his life, which significantly impacted his health and productivity.

5. “A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy” was published in 1768, the same year he died, and it marked a departure from his previous comic style to a more emotional and introspective narrative.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Laurence Sterne

1. “What a large volume of adventures may be grasped within this little span of life, by him who interests his heart in everything.”

2. “To have respect for ourselves guides our morals; and to have a deference for others governs our manners.”

3. “Digressions, incontestably, are the sunshine; they are the life, the soul of reading.”

4. “Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners.”

5. “When the heart flies out before the understanding, it saves the judgment a world of pains.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Laurence Sterne did not achieve significant wealth during his lifetime, and his highest net worth is not well-documented. His financial situation was modest, primarily sustained through his clerical duties and the modest earnings from his literary works.

Children

Laurence Sterne and his wife, Elizabeth Lumley, had one daughter named Lydia Sterne de Medalle. Lydia was born in 1747 and lived until 1783. She inherited her father’s literary estate and his manuscripts.