George Crabbe

Date of Birth: December 24, 1754

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: February 3, 1832

Biography

George Crabbe was an English poet, surgeon, and clergyman known for his realistic narrative poetry and keen observations of rural life. Born into a modest family, Crabbe initially trained as a surgeon but turned to literature due to financial difficulties. With the help of influential patrons like Edmund Burke, he published several successful works that captured the plight of the rural poor. His notable works include “The Village,” “The Borough,” and “Tales in Verse.” Crabbe’s poetry is celebrated for its vivid detail, moral seriousness, and emotional depth, which offer a stark contrast to the idealized pastoral poetry of his time. Besides his literary contributions, Crabbe served as a clergyman in various parishes, blending his religious duties with his writing career.

5 Interesting Facts about George Crabbe

1. George Crabbe was initially a surgeon before becoming a full-time poet.

2. His poem “The Village” was a response to Oliver Goldsmith’s “The Deserted Village,” offering a more realistic depiction of rural life.

3. Crabbe was a mentor to the Romantic poets, including Lord Byron, who admired his work.

4. He was ordained as an Anglican clergyman in 1781 and served in various parishes throughout his life.

5. Crabbe’s detailed and unembellished portrayal of rural poverty earned him the title of “the poet of the poor.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from George Crabbe

1. “Oh, rather give me commentators plain, who with no deep researches vex the brain.”

2. “Books cannot always please, however good; minds are not ever craving for their food.”

3. “In idle wishes fools supinely stay; be there a will, and wisdom finds a way.”

4. “To sigh, yet feel no pain; to weep, yet scarce know why; to sport an hour with Beauty’s chain, then throw it idly by.”

5. “In this fool’s paradise he drank delight.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

While specific records of George Crabbe’s net worth are not readily available, he was financially supported by influential patrons and earned a comfortable living through his clerical positions and literary works.

Children

George Crabbe had several children with his wife Sarah Elmy. His sons, George Crabbe Jr. and John Crabbe, both followed in their father’s footsteps in various capacities, though not much is documented about their lives.