Richard Steele Quotes

A collection of quotes by Richard Steele.

Richard Steele (1672-1729) was an Irish essayist, playwright, and politician, best known for his role as a prominent figure in the development of English periodical literature during the early 18th century. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Steele attended Charterhouse School in England before studying at Oxford University. He initially pursued a career in the military and rose to the rank of captain, but later shifted his focus to writing and politics.

Steele's literary career took off with the establishment of The Tatler, a thrice-weekly periodical that he co-founded with Joseph Addison in 1709. The publication, which featured essays on various topics such as society, manners, and literature, became highly influential and enjoyed substantial popularity. Steele's witty and insightful writing style garnered him a reputation as a skillful essayist. Following the success of The Tatler, Steele went on to launch The Spectator in 1711, another highly esteemed periodical that further solidified his literary legacy.

Apart from his literary pursuits, Steele also had a significant political career. He was elected as a Member of Parliament and served as Commissioner for Forfeited Estates in Ireland. His political essays often reflected his Whig views and played a role in shaping public opinion. Steele's works were known for their moral principles, humor, and satire, and he played a pivotal role in the development of the English essay as a popular form of writing. His contributions to literature and politics have left a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of 18th-century England.