John Lyly

Date of Birth: 1554

Zodiac Sign: Unknown

Date of Death: November 1606

Biography

John Lyly was an influential English writer, playwright, and poet of the Elizabethan era, best known for his prose works “Euphues: The Anatomy of Wit” (1578) and “Euphues and His England” (1580). These works pioneered a highly ornate style of writing known as Euphuism, characterized by its use of balanced sentences, alliteration, and classical references. Lyly’s style became immensely popular and influential in his time, affecting the prose of many subsequent writers, including William Shakespeare. Lyly was born in Kent, England, and educated at Magdalen College, Oxford, where he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. After his university education, he became associated with the royal court, serving as a courtier and acquiring patronage from influential figures such as Queen Elizabeth I and the Earl of Oxford. In addition to his prose works, Lyly wrote several plays, including “Campaspe” (1584), “Sapho and Phao” (1584), and “Endymion” (1588), which were performed by the Children of Paul’s, a notable troupe of boy actors. Lyly’s contributions to English literature extended beyond his distinctive prose style. His plays often featured mythological themes, witty dialogue, and intricate plots, laying the groundwork for the development of English Renaissance drama. Despite his significant impact on literature, Lyly faced financial difficulties later in life and struggled to secure a stable position at court. He died in relative obscurity, but his legacy endures through his innovative contributions to English prose and drama.

5 Interesting Facts about John Lyly

1. John Lyly is credited with coining the term “Euphuism,” a highly ornate literary style that became the hallmark of his writing.

2. His play “Endymion” (1588) is considered one of the earliest examples of English romantic comedy, influencing later playwrights like Shakespeare.

3. Lyly’s works were so popular that they were frequently referenced and parodied by other writers of his time, indicating his widespread influence.

4. Despite his literary success, Lyly faced significant financial hardship and petitioned Queen Elizabeth I multiple times for financial assistance and a stable court position.

5. Lyly’s influence extended to the structure of English drama; he was one of the first to use prose in his comedies instead of the more traditional verse.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Lyly

1. “It is a world to see how virtue can be adorned by the mind and defaced by the body.”

2. “The finest edge is made with the blunt whetstone.”

3. “Marriages are made in heaven and consummated on earth.”

4. “He who loseth wealth, loseth much; he who loseth a friend, loseth more; but he that loseth his spirits, loseth all.”

5. “The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Lyly’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but given his financial struggles later in life, it is evident that he did not amass significant wealth.