William Drummond

Date of Birth: December 13, 1585

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: December 4, 1649

Biography

William Drummond of Hawthornden was a distinguished Scottish poet born in 1585 in Hawthornden, near Edinburgh. He is widely recognized for his lyrical and pastoral poetry, which often reflected the beauty of nature and the complexity of human emotions. Drummond was educated at the Royal High School of Edinburgh and later attended the University of Edinburgh, where he studied philosophy and law. However, his true passion lay in literature, and he soon devoted himself to poetry. Drummond’s work was heavily influenced by the Italian Renaissance, and he is often considered Scotland’s first notable poet to write in English rather than Scots. His most famous works include “Poems” (1616) and “Flowres of Sion” (1623), collections that showcased his mastery of the sonnet form and his deep religious and philosophical contemplations. In addition to his poetry, Drummond was also an avid historian and collector of books. He maintained a correspondence with many of the leading literary figures of his time, including Ben Jonson, who famously visited him in 1618. Drummond’s legacy continues to be celebrated for his contribution to Scottish literature and his ability to weave intricate expressive tapestries through his verse.

5 Interesting Facts about William Drummond

1. William Drummond was deeply influenced by the works of Petrarch and Tasso, which is evident in his sonnet sequences.

2. He is known to have had an extensive library, which contained over 500 volumes, a remarkable collection for his time.

3. Drummond’s poetry often reflected his melancholic nature, a result of personal losses, including the death of his fiancée, Mary Cunningham.

4. He was an early advocate for the use of the English language in Scottish literature, bridging a significant cultural gap.

5. Drummond’s home, Hawthornden Castle, became a hub for literary gatherings and is still preserved as a historic site today.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from William Drummond

1. “Of all those arts in which the wise excel, Nature’s chief masterpiece is writing well.”

2. “Thrice happy he who by some shady grove, Far from the clamorous world; doth live his own.”

3. “I fear not death, but dying.”

4. “True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice.”

5. “Books are a guide in youth, and an entertainment for age.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The concept of net worth was not applicable in Drummond’s era, but he was relatively affluent, owning the estate of Hawthornden.

Children

William Drummond had several children with his wife, Elizabeth Logan, but little detailed information is available about them, reflecting the often sparse historical records of family life in the 17th century.