Edward Caswall
Edward Caswall (1814-1878) was a prominent English religious hymn translator and poet known for his significant contributions to Christian literature in the 19th century. Born to a vicar in the Church of England, Caswall studied at Marlborough Grammar School and Brasenose College, where he first published a satirical story. He was ordained as an Anglican priest in 1839, but his life took a pivotal turn when he befriended Cardinal John Henry Newman, leading him to convert to Catholicism and later become a Roman Catholic priest in 1852 after the death of his wife.
Caswall served at the Congregation of the Oratory established by Newman in Birmingham, where he dedicated himself to translating Latin and French hymns into English. His translations gained widespread acclaim, surpassing the popularity of other translators of his time. Additionally, he authored original hymns and poetry, most notably compiled in his works "Lyra Catholica" and "The Masque of Mary, and Other Poems." Beyond his literary achievements, Caswall was also recognized for his compassion and commitment to aiding the poor and sick. He died in England in 1878 and was buried near Cardinal Newman, reflecting the close bond they shared throughout his life.
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Edward Caswall
Writer
- Born: July 15, 1814
- Birthplace: Yately, Hampshire, England
- Died: January 2, 1878
- Place of death: Birmingham, England
Biography
Edward Caswall, a nineteenth century religious hymn translator and poet, was born in England. His father, Robert Clarke Caswall, was a vicar for the Church of England. Caswell attended Marlborough Grammar School and then Brasenose College in Oxford, England. While in college, he published his first work, a satirical story titled The Art of Pluck.
In 1839, Caswall was ordained an Anglican priest. Caswall became friends with the Roman Catholic Cardinal John Henry Newman. Cardinal Newman was an influential figure in Caswall’s life and, eventually, Caswall left his position in the Church of England and converted to Catholicism.
In 1852, two years after the death of his wife, Caswall was ordained a Roman Catholic priest. He served his priesthood at the Congregation of the Oratory, which was established by Cardinal Newman in Birmingham, England. Caswall spent his time translating Latin and French hymns into English. Caswall’s hymnal translations are well-regarded and had a larger circulation than those of any other translator. Caswall also created many original hymns and poems which are recorded in his noted works Lyra Catholica andThe Masque of Mary, and Other Poems.
Caswall’s life was not only remembered for his poems and translations, but also for his devotion and loving interest for the poor and sick. In 1878, Caswall died in England. He was buried near his friend and mentor, Cardinal John Newman.