George Herbert
A 17th-century priest whose deceptively simple poems, shaped like altars and wings, explored divine love with quiet, wrenching intimacy.
1593–1633 (age 40)·English poet, orator and Anglican priest·Birthday: April 3
Biography
George Herbert lived a life of postponed ambition that yielded extraordinary art. Born into aristocratic wealth, he seemed destined for a high-flying public career at court, serving as the University of Cambridge's Orator and attracting the favor of King James I. Yet, after a period of political disappointment and introspection, he turned away from secular advancement. In his late thirties, he took holy orders and became the rector of a small parish in Bemerton, dedicating himself to the humble care of his rural congregation. It was here, in the last three years of his life, that he composed the poems that would secure his legacy. Published posthumously as 'The Temple,' these works are masterpieces of metaphysical poetry, using everyday imagery—a pulley, a collar, a flower—to grapple with complex spiritual struggle and grace. His verse is formally inventive, often arranged in visual patterns, and resonates with a quiet, deeply personal devotion that feels startlingly modern.
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George's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1593Born
1598Started school
1606Became a teenager
1609Could drive
1611Could vote
1614Turned 21
1623Turned 30
1633Turned 40
Key Achievements
- Published the seminal poetry collection 'The Temple' posthumously in 1633, a cornerstone of English metaphysical and devotional verse.
- Served as the Public Orator of the University of Cambridge, a prestigious post that involved writing official university speeches and letters.
- Was ordained as a priest in the Church of England and served as the rector of the parishes of Fugglestone St Peter and Bemerton.
- His poems "The Altar" and "Easter Wings" are famous examples of pattern poetry, where the words are arranged to form a visual shape on the page.
Did You Know?
He was a skilled lutenist and often wrote his poems to be accompanied by music.
He was a friend of the philosopher Francis Bacon and helped translate some of Bacon's works into Latin.
On his deathbed, he sent his manuscript of 'The Temple' to his friend Nicholas Ferrar, instructing him to publish it only if he thought it might "turn to the advantage of any dejected poor soul."
He is commemorated with a feast day on February 27 in the liturgical calendars of several Anglican churches.
“Living well is the best revenge.”
