Joseph Addison Quotes
A collection of quotes by Joseph Addison.
Joseph Addison (1672-1719) was an English essayist, poet, playwright, and politician who made significant contributions to the fields of literature and journalism during the 18th century. Born in Milston, Wiltshire, Addison completed his education at Queen's College, Oxford, where he developed a reputation for his writing skills and intellectual prowess.
Addison's literary career began to flourish when he collaborated with Richard Steele to create The Tatler, a popular periodical that focused on social commentary and satire. This venture laid the foundation for another influential publication, The Spectator, which Addison actively contributed to between 1711 and 1712. His essays in The Spectator, known for their wit, wisdom, and moral insights, made him one of the most celebrated essayists of his time.
Apart from his journalistic work, Addison also wrote numerous poems, including the well-known "The Campaign" (1704), which praised the Duke of Marlborough's victory in the Battle of Blenheim during the War of the Spanish Succession. He also penned a tragedy titled "Cato" (1713), which became one of the most popular plays of the 18th century.
In addition to his literary pursuits, Addison held various political positions, including Secretary of State for the Southern Department. His political career allowed him to influence critical policy decisions during a time of significant change and gave him a unique perspective that he often incorporated into his writings.
Joseph Addison's eloquent and insightful works made him immensely popular during his time, and his writings continue to be studied and appreciated for their literary and intellectual merits. He left an indelible mark on the literary landscape of the 18th century, making him one of the most prominent figures of the period.
