Edward FitzGerald
Early Life and Education
Edward FitzGerald, born on March 31, 1809, in Bredfield, Suffolk, England, was a renowned English poet and translator. He was the seventh child of John Purcell, who later adopted the surname FitzGerald, and Mary Frances FitzGerald. The family was affluent, owning estates in both Ireland and England, which provided Edward with a comfortable upbringing.
FitzGerald's early education was conducted at home, where he developed a love for literature and the arts. In 1821, he was sent to King Edward VI School in Bury St Edmunds, where he was introduced to classical literature. His education continued at Trinity College, Cambridge, beginning in 1826. At Cambridge, FitzGerald formed friendships with several notable figures, including William Makepeace Thackeray and Alfred Tennyson. Despite his academic environment, FitzGerald did not excel in his studies, graduating with a pass degree in 1830.
Literary Career
Early Works
After leaving Cambridge, FitzGerald lived a life of leisure, supported by his family's wealth. He spent much of his time reading and engaging with the intellectual circles of his day. His early literary efforts were modest, consisting mainly of essays and translations, which he circulated among friends rather than seeking publication.
The Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám
FitzGerald's most significant contribution to literature was his translation of the Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, a collection of quatrains attributed to the Persian poet Omar Khayyám. FitzGerald's first edition of the translation was published anonymously in 1859. Initially, it attracted little attention, but it gradually gained popularity, especially among the Pre-Raphaelites and other literary figures.
FitzGerald's translation is notable for its liberal adaptation of the original Persian text. Rather than a direct translation, FitzGerald's work is a reimagining of Khayyám's themes, focusing on the transient nature of life and the pursuit of pleasure. The Rubáiyát became a significant cultural phenomenon in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing writers and artists worldwide.
Later Works and Translations
Following the success of the Rubáiyát, FitzGerald continued to work on translations. He translated works from Spanish, including the plays of Pedro Calderón de la Barca, and from Greek, such as the Agamemnon of Aeschylus. His translations were characterized by a similar approach to the Rubáiyát, prioritizing poetic expression over literal accuracy.
FitzGerald also wrote original poetry, though it was not as well-received as his translations. His style was marked by a melancholic tone and a preoccupation with themes of mortality and the passage of time.
Personal Life and Relationships
FitzGerald led a relatively private life, preferring the company of close friends to public engagements. He never married, and his personal correspondence reveals a deep affection for several male friends, including William Browne, a fisherman with whom he shared a close bond.
His friendships with literary figures such as Tennyson and Thackeray were significant, though he often expressed dissatisfaction with the literary scene of his time. FitzGerald's letters, published posthumously, provide insight into his thoughts and relationships, revealing a man of deep sensitivity and introspection.
Legacy and Influence
Edward FitzGerald's legacy is primarily tied to his translation of the Rubáiyát, which remains a seminal work in English literature. His approach to translation, which emphasized capturing the spirit and emotion of the original text, influenced subsequent translators and poets.
The Rubáiyát has been translated into numerous languages and continues to be studied and appreciated for its philosophical depth and lyrical beauty. FitzGerald's work has inspired adaptations in various art forms, including music and visual arts, further cementing his place in literary history.