Richard Blackmore

Date of Birth: January 22, 1654

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: October 8, 1729

Biography

Richard Blackmore, an eminent English poet and physician, was born on January 22, 1654, in Corsham, Wiltshire, England. He is best known for his epic poetry and his significant contributions to medicine. Blackmore attended Westminster School and later went on to study at St Edmund Hall, Oxford, where he earned his B.A. and M.A. He was also a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and served as a physician to King William III. Despite his medical career, Blackmore’s passion for poetry never waned, and he published several lengthy epic poems, the most famous of which include “Prince Arthur” and “King Arthur.” Richard Blackmore’s poetry often addressed moral and philosophical themes, and he was known for his didactic style. Though he faced criticism from some contemporaries for his poetic works, Blackmore remained steadfast in his literary pursuits. His medical writings were also influential, contributing to the advancement of medical science in his time. Blackmore passed away on October 8, 1729, leaving behind a legacy that bridged the worlds of literature and medicine.

5 Interesting Facts about Richard Blackmore

1. Richard Blackmore was knighted by King William III in 1697 for his services as a physician.

2. He was a staunch defender of the Protestant religion and often infused his works with religious themes.

3. Blackmore’s “Prince Arthur” was published in 1695 and became one of his most well-known epic poems.

4. Despite his medical and literary achievements, Blackmore was often satirized by other poets, including Alexander Pope.

5. Blackmore’s medical writings included treatises on smallpox and consumption, contributing to the medical knowledge of these diseases.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Richard Blackmore

1. “The true measure of success is not the height of one’s position, but the depth of one’s character.”

2. “In the practice of medicine, as in the art of poetry, patience and diligence are the keys to mastery.”

3. “A noble mind is guided by reason and fortified by virtue.”

4. “Literature and medicine, though different in form, share a common purpose: to heal the human soul.”

5. “Faith and reason are the twin pillars upon which a life of wisdom is built.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

It is difficult to ascertain the exact net worth of historical figures like Richard Blackmore, but his successful careers in both medicine and literature likely afforded him a comfortable lifestyle.

Children

Richard Blackmore had several children, although specific details about them are sparse. His eldest son, John Blackmore, followed in his father’s footsteps in the medical profession.