Thomas Dekker
Thomas Dekker
Full Name and Common Aliases
Thomas Dekker was a renowned English playwright and poet of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. His full name is often recorded as Thomas Dekker, but he is also known to have used other aliases such as Tom Dekker.
Birth and Death Dates
Dekker's birth date is not precisely documented in historical records; however, it is believed that he was born around 1572. Unfortunately, the exact date of his death remains uncertain as well, although it is estimated to be sometime between 1631 and 1637.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Thomas Dekker was a native Englishman, known primarily for his work in the theatre and literary circles during Elizabethan and Jacobean periods. He earned his living as a playwright, poet, and actor, with an impressive array of creative accomplishments that span multiple genres and formats.
Early Life and Background
Not much is known about Dekker's early life or family background. However, it is speculated that he might have come from a lower-middle-class London family, possibly related to the theatre community. His education and training likely consisted of apprenticeship in writing and acting under experienced playwrights and actors.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his career, Thomas Dekker demonstrated exceptional versatility as a writer. He composed numerous plays that showcased his talents in both comedy and tragedy genres. Some notable works include:
"The Shoemaker's Holiday" (1600): A romantic comedy set during the reign of Queen Mary I.
"Patient Griselda" (1638): An adaptation of Giovanni Boccaccio's medieval tale about a noblewoman who endures hardships to prove her love for her husband.
Notable Works or Actions
Thomas Dekker also made significant contributions to theatre in other capacities:
He collaborated with prominent playwrights such as William Shakespeare and John Fletcher on several productions.
In addition to playwriting, Dekker wrote numerous poems and pamphlets that showcased his skill in various literary forms.
Impact and Legacy
The influence of Thomas Dekker can be seen throughout the history of English theatre. His plays continue to be performed today, entertaining audiences with their wit, charm, and thought-provoking themes. As a master of the Elizabethan stage, he laid the groundwork for future generations of playwrights.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Thomas Dekker's lasting impact on English literature stems from his innovative approach to storytelling, which blended elements of comedy, tragedy, and social commentary. His work remains relevant because it reflects the complexities of human experience during a pivotal period in history. As such, he continues to be celebrated as one of the most important figures of the Elizabethan era.
Quotes by Thomas Dekker
Thomas Dekker's insights on:
This world, after all our science and sciences, is still a miracle; wonderful, inscrutable, magical and more, to whosoever will think of it.
In the Tour of Poland, I won the last time trial and that was kind of a surprise. On this specific race, I am just hoping for a top 10.
A wise man poor Is like a sacred book that's never read, - To himself he lives, and to all else seems dead
A wise man poor Is like a sacred book that's never read. To himself he lives, and to all else seems dead. This age thinks better of a gilded fool Than of a threadbare saint in wisdom's school.
To awaken each morning with a smile brightening my face; to greet the day withreverence for the opportunities it contains; to approach my work with a cleanmind; to hold ever before me, even in the doing of little things, the UltimatePurpose toward which I am working; to meet men and women with laughter on mylips and love in my heart; to be gentle, kind, and courteous through all thehours; to approach the night with weariness that ever woos sleep and the joythat comes from work well done -- this is how I desire to waste wisely my days.