Samuel Richardson

Samuel Richardson (19 August 1689 – 4 July 1761) was an English writer and printer known for three epistolary novels: Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded (1740), Clarissa: Or the History of a Young Lady (1748) and The History of Sir Charles Grandison (1753). He printed almost 500 works, including journals and magazines, working periodically with the London bookseller Andrew Millar. Richardson had been apprenticed to a printer, whose daughter he eventually married.

Early Life and Education

Samuel Richardson was born in Mackworth, Derbyshire, England, on 19 August 1689. He was the eldest of seven children born to Thomas Richardson, a wool merchant, and Elizabeth Roffey. Richardson's father died when he was five years old, and he was raised by his mother and his stepmother, Elizabeth Jones.

Richardson received a basic education at a local school, but he was largely self-taught. He was a voracious reader, and he was particularly interested in literature and history.

Literary Career

Richardson began his career as a printer's apprentice in London. He quickly rose through the ranks, and he eventually became a successful printer and publisher.

In 1740, Richardson published his first novel, Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded. The novel was an instant success, and it made Richardson one of the most popular writers in England.

Richardson's next novel, Clarissa: Or the History of a Young Lady, was published in 1748. The novel is considered to be one of the greatest works of English literature, and it is still widely read and admired today.

Richardson's final novel, The History of Sir Charles Grandison, was published in 1753. The novel is not as well-known as Pamela or Clarissa, but it is still a valuable work of literature.

Death

Samuel Richardson died in London on 4 July 1761. He was 71 years old.

Legacy

Samuel Richardson is considered to be one of the most important figures in the history of the novel. He is credited with developing the epistolary novel, and his work has had a profound influence on subsequent generations of writers.

Richardson's novels are praised for their realism, their psychological insight, and their exploration of moral and social issues. They are also praised for their humor, their wit, and their engaging plots.

Richardson is a towering figure in English literature, and his work continues to be relevant to the world today.

Key Works

• Pamela; or, Virtue Rewarded (1740)
• Clarissa: Or the History of a Young Lady (1748)
• The History of Sir Charles Grandison (1753)

Quotes

• "The heart is an abyss, and one never knows where it will lead you."
• "Life is a tragedy when it's felt, a comedy when it's thought."
• "The more I know, the more I despair."
• "One does not love with the mind, but with the heart."
• "I am tired of everything."