Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774) was an Anglo-Irish novelist, playwright, and poet, best known for his novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” and his play “She Stoops to Conquer.” His literary works are celebrated for their wit and humanity.
Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Oliver Goldsmith |
| Birth Date | 10 November 1728 |
| Death Date | 4 April 1774 |
| Nationality | Anglo-Irish |
| Notable Works |
|
| Possible Work | The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes (1765) |
Early Life
Oliver Goldsmith was born on November 10, 1728, in the village of Pallas, County Longford, Ireland. He was raised in a rural setting, which significantly influenced his later literary works. Goldsmith spent his early years in the small village before his family moved to Lissoy, County Westmeath, where his father, the Reverend Charles Goldsmith, had obtained a rectorship. The idyllic surroundings of his childhood and the warmth of his family life left a lasting impression on Goldsmith, shaping his future as a writer and poet. Despite the financial struggles his family faced, these early experiences provided a rich tapestry of memories and observations that Goldsmith would later draw upon in his celebrated works.
Family
| Relation | Name | Information |
|---|---|---|
| Father | Charles Goldsmith | Charles Goldsmith was a clergyman and farmer. He played a significant role in Oliver’s early education and upbringing, instilling in him the values of diligence and piety. |
| Mother | Ann Jones | Ann Jones was known for her intelligence and strong character. She supported Oliver’s education and was a key influence in his early life, encouraging his literary pursuits. |
| Sister | Catherine Goldsmith | Catherine was Oliver’s elder sister and was close to him during his childhood. She provided emotional support and was a confidant throughout his life. |
| Brother | Henry Goldsmith | Henry was Oliver’s elder brother who also pursued a career in the clergy. He shared a deep bond with Oliver and supported his literary ambitions. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| Height | Unknown |
| Weight | Unknown |
| Chest | Unknown |
| Waist | Unknown |
| Hip | Unknown |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Oliver Goldsmith, an 18th-century Anglo-Irish novelist, playwright, and poet, is best known for his works such as “The Vicar of Wakefield,” “She Stoops to Conquer,” and “The Deserted Village.” However, there is no substantial historical evidence or records that provide detailed information about his personal relationships, including wives or girlfriends. Therefore, we can only provide the following:
Oliver Goldsmith did not have any recorded marriage or long-term romantic relationship during his lifetime. He remained unmarried throughout his life.
There are no verified records or notable accounts of Oliver Goldsmith having any previous relationships or romantic liaisons. Historical accounts primarily focus on his literary contributions and professional life rather than his personal life.
Oliver Goldsmith’s life remains an enigma when it comes to his personal relationships. While he is celebrated for his literary genius, his romantic life, if any, remains largely undocumented.
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Oliver Goldsmith became famous primarily through his literary works which gained substantial popularity in the 18th century. His unique ability to blend humor, pathos, and social commentary made his works resonate with a wide audience, contributing to his lasting fame.
Goldsmith’s career began in earnest when he moved to London in the 1750s. He initially struggled, taking on various jobs including apothecary’s assistant and doctor. However, his literary talents soon found an outlet:
- The Citizen of the World (1762) – A series of letters that satirized British society.
- The Vicar of Wakefield (1766) – A novel that became immensely popular and is considered a classic of English literature.
- The Deserted Village (1770) – A poem that lamented the decline of rural life in England.
- She Stoops to Conquer (1773) – A comedy play that is still performed today.
During his lifetime, formal literary awards were not as prevalent as they are today. However, Goldsmith’s works were highly acclaimed by his contemporaries and he was a celebrated figure in literary circles. His play “She Stoops to Conquer” was particularly successful and celebrated.
Oliver Goldsmith’s life was not without controversy:
- Goldsmith often found himself in financial trouble due to his extravagant lifestyle and poor financial management. He was known to borrow money frequently and had many debts.
- There were allegations of plagiarism against Goldsmith. Some critics accused him of borrowing heavily from other writers without proper acknowledgment.
- His relationship with Samuel Johnson, another literary giant of the time, was complex. While they were friends, there were moments of tension and rivalry between them.
Despite these controversies, Oliver Goldsmith remains a significant figure in English literature, remembered for his contributions to both prose and poetry.
Faq
- Who was Oliver Goldsmith?
- Oliver Goldsmith (1728–1774) was an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet, best known for his novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” and his play “She Stoops to Conquer”.
- What is “The Vicar of Wakefield” about?
- “The Vicar of Wakefield” is a novel that tells the story of the Primrose family, focusing on the trials and tribulations they face. It is celebrated for its depiction of 18th-century rural life and its mix of humor and pathos.
- When was “She Stoops to Conquer” first performed?
- “She Stoops to Conquer” was first performed in 1773. It is a comedy that satirizes the social norms and class distinctions of the time through its humorous plot and characters.
- What other works did Oliver Goldsmith write?
- In addition to “The Vicar of Wakefield” and “She Stoops to Conquer”, Goldsmith wrote “The Deserted Village”, a pastoral poem lamenting the decline of rural life, and “The Citizen of the World”, a series of letters satirizing British society.
- What was Oliver Goldsmith’s writing style?
- Goldsmith’s writing style is characterized by its elegance, wit, and social commentary. He often blended humor with serious themes, and his works typically reflect a deep empathy for human nature and the human condition.
- What was Oliver Goldsmith’s impact on literature?
- Oliver Goldsmith’s works have had a lasting impact on literature, particularly in the genres of comedy and pastoral poetry. His ability to combine humor with poignant social criticism has influenced many subsequent writers and continues to be appreciated by readers and scholars alike.
