Matthew Prior

Date of Birth: July 21, 1664

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: September 18, 1721

Biography

Matthew Prior was an English poet and diplomat born on July 21, 1664, in Westminster, London. His father was a joiner, and after his father’s death, he was sent to live with an uncle who was a tavern keeper. Prior attended Westminster School and later St John’s College, Cambridge, where he became a fellow. His poetry garnered the attention of Charles Montagu, the future Earl of Halifax, with whom he co-wrote “The City Mouse and the Country Mouse” in 1687, a satirical piece that earned him recognition. Prior’s career extended beyond poetry into diplomacy. He served as Secretary to the Embassy in The Hague and later held various diplomatic positions in Paris. His service led to involvement in the Treaty of Ryswick (1697) and the Treaty of Utrecht (1713). Despite his political engagement, Prior continued to write, producing several notable works, including “Carmen Seculare” and “Solomon on the Vanity of the World.” Matthew Prior passed away on September 18, 1721, leaving behind a legacy as one of the pre-eminent poets of his time, known for his wit and satirical prowess.

5 Interesting Facts about Matthew Prior

1. Matthew Prior was involved in drafting the Treaty of Utrecht, which helped end the War of the Spanish Succession.

2. Prior’s poem “The Thief and the Cordelier” was inspired by a real-life event when a highwayman sought refuge in Westminster Abbey.

3. He was imprisoned for two years in 1715 due to his political affiliations during the Jacobite uprising.

4. Prior’s works were highly praised by his contemporaries, including Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift.

5. His poetry often critiqued the political and social issues of his time, blending humor with sharp observations.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Matthew Prior

1. “They talk most who have the least to say.”

2. “Hope is but the dream of those that wake.”

3. “Be to her virtues very kind; Be to her faults a little blind.”

4. “Who walks the fastest, but walks astray, is only furthest from his way.”

5. “The ends must justify the means.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Matthew Prior’s highest net worth is not precisely documented, but he was known to have received substantial sums for his diplomatic services and his published works. At the time of his death, he left behind a modest estate.