John Herman Merivale
John Herman Merivale was an English poet and translator born on August 5, 1779, in Exeter, England. Raised in a Presbyterian household by his German descent mother, he had a unique spiritual upbringing that influenced his early education, leading him to leave St. John's College, Cambridge, without completing his degree. In 1805, he married Louisa Heath Drury, with whom he had twelve children, including notable historians Charles and Herman Merivale. Merivale's professional life included a significant role as a commissioner in bankruptcy from 1831 until his death on April 25, 1844. Alongside his legal career, he was an active literary figure, known for his poetry and translations from Greek, Italian, and German, contributing to publications like Blackwood's Magazine. His friendship with the famous poet Lord Byron highlights his literary connections, and he produced notable works such as the "Collections from Greek Anthology" in 1813 and "Poems, Original and Translated" in 1838, showcasing both his translations and original poetry. Merivale's contributions to literature, particularly in translation, remain significant in understanding the cultural exchanges of his time.
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Subject Terms
John Herman Merivale
Nonfiction Writer, Poet and Playwright
- Born: August 5, 1779
- Birthplace: Exeter, England
- Died: April 25, 1844
Biography
John Herman Merivale was born on August 5, 1779, in Exeter, England. His mother was of German decent and raised her son as a Presbyterian. As a result of this spiritual guidance, he had to leave St. John’s College, Cambridge, without a degree. In 1805, he married Louisa Heath Drury, daughter of famed Harrow School headmaster Joseph Drury. With Louisa, he had twelve children: six sons and six daughters. His sons Charles and Herman became famous historians.
In 1831, Merivale was appointed commissioner in bankruptcy; he held that position until his death on April, 25 1844. While working in law, he also published poetry and translated works from Greek, Italian and German. He also made frequent contributions to publications such as Blackwood’s Magazines. Merivale was also a close friend of Lord Byron, who admired his work.
Though he wrote poetry throughout his career, Merivale was primarily recognized for his translations. In 1813, he collaborated with Robert Bland for the Collections from Greek Anthology and from the Pastoral, Elegiac, and Dramatic Poets of Greece. In 1814, Merivale published Orlando in Roncesvalles. He would not publish again until 1838, when his Poems, Original and Translated appeared. Poems came in two volumes that included some translated works and some of his own.