James Howell

Date of Birth: July 1594

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: November 1666

Biography

James Howell was an influential Welsh writer and historian born in the early 17th century. He is best known for his extensive and varied body of work, which includes letters, historical accounts, and travel literature. Howell was an astute observer of the political and social changes of his time, and his writings provide valuable insight into the early modern period in Europe. His most notable work, “Epistolae Ho-Elianae” (Familiar Letters), is a collection of letters that offer a vivid picture of 17th-century life and thought. Howell traveled extensively across Europe, which greatly influenced his writing and broadened his perspective on international affairs. He was also a Fellow of Jesus College, Oxford, and served in various diplomatic and governmental roles throughout his career.

5 Interesting Facts about James Howell

1. James Howell was the first writer to publish a book entirely composed of letters, which set a precedent for the epistolary genre.

2. He served as the Clerk of the Council to King Charles I of England.

3. Howell was imprisoned during the English Civil War due to his Royalist sympathies.

4. He was a polyglot, fluent in several languages including Welsh, English, French, Spanish, and Italian.

5. His work “Londinopolis” is one of the earliest historical accounts of the city of London.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from James Howell

1. “Words are but the signs of ideas.”

2. “Distance sometimes endears friendship, and absence sweeteneth it.”

3. “We are more sociable and get on better with people by the heart than the intellect.”

4. “Travel is the best teacher, and the universal school of life.”

5. “In all things that are not commanded, one may do as he will, and in all things that are commanded, one must do as he is able.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

James Howell’s financial status varied throughout his life, largely due to political turmoil and personal circumstances. At his peak, his net worth would be modest by today’s standards, primarily derived from his positions in government and the success of his publications.