George Borrow

Date of Birth: July 5, 1803

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: July 26, 1881

Biography

George Henry Borrow was a 19th-century English author and traveler known for his fascination with the Romani people and languages. Born into a military family, Borrow’s early life was marked by frequent moves and diverse cultural exposures. His father, Captain Thomas Borrow, served in the British Army, which took the family across England and into Ireland and Scotland. Borrow developed a keen interest in languages from a young age, a passion that would define much of his later work. Borrow’s literary career began in earnest with the publication of “The Zincali” in 1841, a book about the Romani people of Spain. This was followed by his most famous work, “Lavengro: The Scholar, the Gypsy, the Priest” in 1851, and its sequel, “The Romany Rye,” in 1857. Borrow’s works are celebrated for their vivid descriptions, unique characters, and deep empathy for the marginalized communities he encountered. Despite facing criticism and controversy for his sometimes unconventional views and lifestyle, Borrow’s contributions to literature and ethnography have left a lasting legacy. He spent his later years in relative obscurity but continued to write and travel until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about George Borrow

1. George Borrow was fluent in over 20 languages, including Romani, Welsh, and Russian.

2. He spent several years traveling across Spain, often in the company of Romani people, which greatly influenced his work.

3. Borrow worked for the British and Foreign Bible Society, distributing Bibles in various countries.

4. He was known for his eclectic interests, including boxing and horse riding.

5. Borrow’s house in Oulton, Norfolk, where he spent his later years, is now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Borrow

1. “There is no greater mistake than to suppose that books have only one purpose.”

2. “The only true journey is within oneself.”

3. “Language is the blood of the soul into which thoughts run and out of which they grow.”

4. “Traveling is like flirting with life. It’s like saying, ‘I would stay and love you, but I have to go.’”

5. “Life is sweet, brother; there’s day and night, brother, both sweet things; sun, moon, and stars, brother, all sweet things; there’s likewise a wind on the heath.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

George Borrow never achieved substantial financial success during his lifetime. His highest net worth was modest, primarily derived from his book sales and work with the British and Foreign Bible Society. Estimates place his peak net worth at around £5,000, which would be approximately £500,000 today when adjusted for inflation.

Children

George Borrow had one daughter, Henrietta “Henri” Borrow, born in 1844. She was often referred to affectionately in Borrow’s personal writings and lived a relatively private life. Henrietta did not follow in her father’s literary footsteps but remained an important figure in his life.