John Wilmot

Date of Birth: April 1, 1647

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: July 26, 1680

Biography

John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester, was an English poet and courtier of King Charles II’s Restoration court. Born in 1647, Wilmot became one of the most notorious figures of the Restoration period. Known for his sharp wit, libertine lifestyle, and scandalous poetry, he was both celebrated and reviled in equal measure. His works often explored themes of love, debauchery, and the follies of the human condition, capturing the spirit and excesses of his time. Despite his short life, Wilmot’s poetry has left a lasting impact on English literature, influencing many subsequent writers and poets.

5 Interesting Facts about John Wilmot

1. John Wilmot was a close friend and confidant of King Charles II, often entertaining the king with his sharp wit and satirical verses.

2. He was notorious for his libertine lifestyle, indulging in excessive drinking, womanizing, and other forms of hedonism.

3. His most famous work, “A Satyr Against Reason and Mankind,” is a scathing critique of rationalism and human pretensions.

4. Despite his reputation for debauchery, Wilmot was also known for his deep intelligence and was a patron of the arts.

5. He died at the young age of 33, likely due to complications from syphilis, exacerbated by his excessive lifestyle.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from John Wilmot

1. “Before I got married I had six theories about bringing up children; now I have six children and no theories.”

2. “All men would be cowards if they durst.”

3. “Here lies a great and mighty king, Whose promise none relies on; He never said a foolish thing, Nor ever did a wise one.”

4. “He had his jest, and they had his estate.”

5. “Man differs more from Man, than Man from Beast.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

John Wilmot’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as an Earl with a substantial inheritance, his wealth would have been considerable for his time.

Children

John Wilmot had four children with his wife, Elizabeth Malet: 1. Anne Wilmot 2. Elizabeth Wilmot 3. Malet Wilmot 4. John Wilmot, who succeeded him as the 3rd Earl of Rochester