Thomas Overbury Quotes

A collection of quotes by Thomas Overbury.

Thomas Overbury (1581-1613) was an influential English poet and essayist during the Jacobean era. Born in Compton Scorpion, Warwickshire, he grew up in a prosperous family and received an excellent education at Queen's College, Oxford.

Overbury is best recognized for his written works, which were widely acclaimed and admired during his lifetime. His most notable publication is "A Wife," a didactic poem focusing on the qualities of an ideal wife and marriage. This work showcased his ability to combine moral teachings with poetic skill, highlighting his distinctive literary style.

In addition to his poetry, Overbury was known for his prose writings and intellectual pursuits. He served as a secretary to Robert Carr, the notorious favorite of King James I, and his circle of influential courtiers. Overbury's intelligence and wit made him a sought-after companion in court circles, where his sharp observations and biting satirical comments were highly regarded.

However, Overbury's promising career came to a tragic end when he was poisoned in the Tower of London. His death sparked a sensational murder trial known as the Overbury Affair, which exposed corruption and intrigue at the highest levels of society. The trial became one of the most notorious legal proceedings of the era, attracting immense public attention.

Despite his untimely death, Thomas Overbury left a lasting impact on English literature, particularly through his insightful observations on society and relationships. He is remembered as a talented writer whose works shed light on the cultural and social intricacies of the Jacobean era.