The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume IV.Cibber, Theophilus
General
The Lives of the Poets of Great Britain and Ireland (1753) Volume IV.
Cibber, Theophilus
Poets, English -- Biography -- Early works to 1800; Poets, Irish -- Biography -- Early works to 1800
By the immediate authority of his father, our noble author's studies
were confined to one particular branch of learning; with a view, no
doubt, that his son's uncommon genius might make the greater progress,
and shine with a superior lustre in that species of erudition he had
made choice of for him. On this account it was, that the earl his
father would not permit the young lord to go to public or private
schools, or to any college, or university, but had him carefully
instructed by domestic tutors; and as he gave an early display of the
most astonishing parts, the earl bent all his thoughts how to improve
them in the best manner, for his son's future advantage.
As soon as this sprightly genius, had laid a sufficient foundation in
classical learning, he studied history, particularly that of his
own country, by which he was able to discern the principles of
the constitution, the revolutions it has undergone, the variety of
accidents by which it may be endangered, and the true policy by
which it can be preserved. While he thus read history, he became a
politician; and as he did not neglect other sciences, he acquired a
general knowledge both of life and things, before most other persons
of distinction begin to read, or think at all.
By his not receiving an academical education, he escaped that
stiffness and moroseness of temper frequently contracted by those who
have been for some time condemned to a collegiate obscurity. Neither
had he the least tincture of a haughty superiority, arising from
the nobleness of his birth, and the lustre of his abilities. His
conversation was easy, pleasant, and instructive, always suited to his
company, of whatever quality, humour, or capacity they were.
As it was the earl of Wharton's view, to qualify his son to fill
that high station, in which his birth would one day place him with
advantage to his country; his great care was to form him a compleat
orator. For this purpose some of the principal parts in the best
English Tragedies were assign'd him at times to study, particularly
those of Shakespear, which he used to repeat before a private
audience. Sometimes his father gave him speeches which had been
uttered in the house of peers, and which the young lord got by heart,
and delivered with all the graces of action and elocution; with so
much propriety of expression, emphasis of voice, and pronunciation
wherever it was requisite, as shewed his lordship was born for this
arduous province. Nor did the excellency of these performances receive
a small additional beauty from the gracefulness of his person, which
was at once soft and majestic.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account