Edward Gibbon
Edward Gibbon, born on May 8, 1737, in Putney, England, was a renowned historian, most famous for his monumental work, "The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire." Here are some detailed insights into his life and contributions:
Early Life and Education
- Gibbon was the only child of Edward Gibbon Sr., a member of Parliament, and Judith Porten.
- His early education was somewhat erratic due to his frail health and frequent changes in tutors. He attended Magdalen College, Oxford, but left after only 14 months due to dissatisfaction with the education system.
- His father then sent him to Lausanne, Switzerland, where he converted to Catholicism, only to later revert to Protestantism under pressure from his father.
Major Works
Historical Method and Influence
Legacy
- Gibbon is often regarded as one of the greatest historians in the English language. His work remains a fundamental text in the study of the Roman Empire's decline.
- His critical approach to history laid the groundwork for future historians, encouraging a more analytical and less narrative-driven historiography.
Death
For further reading and citations:
See Also