Samuel Daniel

Full Name and Common Aliases

Samuel Daniel (1562-1619) was an English poet, playwright, and historian who used the aliases "Daniel" and "Samuel Daniele".

Birth and Death Dates

Born in Timsbury, Somerset, England, on September 5, 1562, Samuel Daniel passed away on October 14, 1619.

Nationality and Profession(s)

Daniel was an English national of Welsh descent. He worked as a poet, playwright, historian, and translator throughout his career.

Early Life and Background

Samuel Daniel's early life is not well-documented, but it is known that he was born in Timsbury, Somerset, England, to a family with Welsh roots. Little information exists about his childhood or education, but he likely received a classical education at the local grammar school. In 1582, he moved to London to pursue a career in writing.

Major Accomplishments

Daniel's literary accomplishments include:

Poetry: He wrote several collections of poetry, including _Delia_ (1592) and _The Collection of the Temples of Kynaston_ (1605). His poems are characterized by their melancholy tone, classical allusions, and exploration of themes such as love, beauty, and mortality.
Plays: Daniel wrote several plays for the English stage, including _Cleopatra_ (1610) and _Hymen's Triumph_ (1602).
Historical Works: He also wrote historical works, such as _The Civil Wars between the Houses of Lancaster and York_ (1595), which provided a detailed account of England's struggles during the 15th century.

Notable Works or Actions

Daniel's notable works include:

_Delia_ (1592): This collection of poems is considered one of his most significant works. It explores themes of love, beauty, and mortality through classical allusions.
* _The Civil Wars between the Houses of Lancaster and York_ (1595): This historical work provides a detailed account of England's struggles during the 15th century.

Impact and Legacy

Samuel Daniel had a significant impact on English literature during his time. His works were widely admired by his contemporaries, and he was known for his mastery of classical forms. He also played an important role in shaping the development of English poetry and drama. Today, Daniel is remembered as one of the most notable figures of the Elizabethan era.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered

Daniel's works are still widely studied and quoted today due to their beautiful language, exploration of timeless themes, and historical significance. His poetry and plays continue to be celebrated for their mastery of classical forms, while his historical works provide valuable insights into England's past.