Bartholomew Griffin
Bartholomew Griffin was a sixteenth-century English poet known primarily for his collection of sonnets titled *Fidessa, More Chaste than Kind*, published in 1596. His work consists of sixty-two sonnets, which have been noted for their repetitive use of forms and elements, drawing comparisons to the sonnet styles popularized by William Shakespeare. Although Griffin's poetry did not achieve widespread acclaim, some of his sonnets were reprinted, suggesting that he garnered a modest audience during his time. Critics are divided in their assessment of Griffin's contributions; some view him as an imitator lacking originality, while others argue that his work still holds some merit despite its derivative nature. Additionally, there are vague historical connections suggesting he may be associated with the Griffins of Dingley, although this remains unproven. Overall, Griffin's legacy is characterized by a combination of imitation and innovation within the poetic conventions of his era.
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Bartholomew Griffin
Poet
- Born: fl. 1596
Biography
While there are some vague leads into the past of Bartholomew Griffin, very little is definitely known about him. Historians feel that he could be tied to the Griffins of Dingley, though the evidence of such a connection is inconclusive. What is known about Griffin is that lived in sixteenth century England. In 1596 he published Fidessa, More Chaste than Kind, a collection of sixty-two sonnets written in English. Contemporary critics are quick to point out that Griffin’s sonnets make repetitive use of the same forms and elements. A number of the sonnets from his book were written in the same format popularized by William Shakespeare. Griffin contributed to the technical form of the sonnet by ending all the lines with the same word in one of his sonnets. His meager attempts with new forms and ideas are said to be few and far between.
While very little is known about his personal life, it is believed that Fidessa, More Chaste than Kind attracted some minor attention to the poet, as some of his sonnets saw reprinting. Contemporary critics share conflicting views of Griffin’s worth. Some view his poetry as nothing more than an attempt to copy others’ superior work. These critics tend to deem Griffin’s work of little importance. Other critics feel that while Griffin’s work was born from imitation and may lack some originality, his works still have merit.