Thursday, 16 January 2025

Just Posted

Here's my most recently posted Trivial Biographies:

Daniel Defoe
Claude Debussy


James Dean
Robert De Niro
Catherine de Medici
Charles de Gaulle
Doris Day

Willis Carrier
Charles G. Dawes
Humphry Davy
Sammy Davis Jr.

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Index

Daniel Defoe
Claude Debussy
James Dean
Robert De Niro
Catherine de Medici
Charles de Gaulle
Doris Day
Charles G. Dawes
Humphry Davy
Sammy Davis Jr.
Bette Davis


Saint David
King David
Charles Darwin
Dante Alighieri
Daniel (biblical figure)
Salvador Dalí
Dalai Lama
Gottlieb Daimler
Roald Dahl
Louis Daguerre
Cyrus the Great
Cyril and Methodius
Georges Cuvier
George Armstrong Custer
Marie Curie
Johan Cruyff
Tom Cruise
Russell Crowe
Fanny Crosby
Bing Crosby
Thomas Cromwell
Oliver Cromwell
Davy Crockett
Francis Crick
Michael Crichton
Joan Crawford


Thomas Crapper
Thomas Cranmer
William Cowper
Kevin Costner
Sergio Costa
Bill Cosby
Hernán Cortés
Aaron Copland
Nicolaus Copernicus
Gary Cooper
Bradley Cooper
Calvin Coolidge
Sam Cooke
Thomas Cook
Captain James Cook


Constantine the Great
John Constable
Joseph Conrad
Sean Connery
Confucius
Commodus
Christopher Columbus
Saint Columba
William Colgate
Samuel Taylor Coleridge
William "Buffalo Bill" Cody
William Cobbett
Kurt Cobain
Clovis I
George Clooney
Robert Clive
Hillary Clinton
Bill Clinton
Grover Cleveland
Cleopatra
Claudius


William Clark
Eric Clapton
André-Gustave Citroën
Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus
Cicero
Winston Churchill
John Chrysostom
Saint Christopher
Christina, Queen of Sweden
Agatha Christie
Frédéric Chopin
Thomas Chippendale
Julia Child
Louis Chevrolet
Maurice Chevalier
G. K. Chesterton
Anton Chekhov
Geoffrey Chaucer
Ray Charles
Charles VIII of France
Charles VII of France
Charles VI of France
Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor
Charles III


Charles II of England
Charles I of England
Charlemagne
Charlie Chaplin
Coco Chanel
Raymond Chandler
Jackie Chan
Neville Chamberlain
Paul Cézanne
Miguel de Cervantes
Saint Cecilia
William Caxton
Henry Cavendish
Edith Cavell
Catherine the Great
Catherine, Princess of Wales
Catherine of Aragon
Fidel Castro
Butch Cassidy
Johnny Cash


Giacomo Casanova
George Washington Carver
Caravaggio
Enrico Caruso
Edmund Cartwright
Barbara Cartland
Louis-François Cartier
Jacques Cartier
Jimmy Carter
Rachel Carson
Johnny Carson
Lewis Carroll
Willis Carrier
Jim Carrey
Sabrina Carpenter
Andrew Carnegie


Thomas Carlyle
William Carey
Mariah Carey
Truman Capote
Al Capone
King Canute
Albert Camus
Queen Camilla
James Cameron
David Cameron
John Calvin
Maria Callas
James Callaghan
Caligula
Michael Caine
Julius Caesar


Caedmon
John Cadbury
Lord Byron
William Byrd
George W. Bush
George H. W. Bush
Richard Burton
Edgar Rice Burroughs
Aaron Burr
Robert Burns
Frances Hodgson Burnett
Edmund Burke
John Bunyan
Warren Buffet
The Buddha
James Buchanan
Kobe Bryant
Isambard Kingdom Brunel
Beau Brummell
Robert Browning


Elizabeth Browning
James Brown
Gordon Brown
Capability Brown
Phillips Brooks
Mel Brooks
Louise Brooks
Garth Brooks
Rupert Brooke
Emily Brontë
Charlotte Brontë
Benjamin Britten
Leonid Brezhnev
Bertolt Brecht
Eva Braun
Richard Branson
Marlon Brando
Louis Braille
Johannes Brahms
Tycho Brahe
Don Bradman
Ray Bradbury
Robert Boyle
David Bowie
Clara Bow
Boudicca


Sandro Botticelli
Ian Botham
Alexander Borodin
Lucrezia Borgia
Cesare Borgia
Björn Borg
William Booth
John Wilkes Booth
Daniel Boone
Bono
Bonnie Prince Charlie
Saint Boniface
Pope Boniface VIII
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Usain Bolt
Simon Bolivar
Anne Boleyn
Humphrey Bogart
Boethius
Giovanni Boccaccio
Enid Blyton
Amelia Bloomer
Charles Blondin
Mel Blanc
William Blake
Tony Blair
Elizabeth Blackwell
Antoinette Brown Blackwell
Blackbeard
Georges Bizet
Otto Von Bismarck
László Bíró
Clarence Birdseye
Osama bin Laden
Billy the Kid
Simone Biles
Steve Biko
Justin Bieber
Joe Biden


Jeff Bezos
Beyoncé
John Betjeman
George Best
Chuck Berry
Yogi Berra
Leonard Bernstein
Sarah Bernhardt
Tim Berners-Lee
Bernard of Clairvaux
Saint Bernadette
Hector Berlioz
Irving Berlin
Ingrid Bergman
Karl Benz
Jeremy Bentham
E. F. Benson
St. Benedict of Nursia
Pope Benedict XVI
Giovanni Belzoni
Saul Bellow
Hilaire Belloc
Alexander Graham Bell
Isabella Beeton
Ludwig van Beethoven


Lyman Beecher
Henry Ward Beecher
Catherine Beecher
The Venerable Bede
David Beckham
Samuel Beckett
Thomas Becket
Boris Becker
Franz Beckenbauer
Sidney Bechet
William Beaumont
Warren Beatty
John Bartram
Clara Barton
Karl Barth
J. M. Barrie
P. T. Barnum
Thomas John Barnardo
Brigitte Bardot
Samuel Barber
Saint Barbara
Joseph Banks
Lucille Ball
Arthur Balfour
Stanley Baldwin
Josephine Baker
John Logie Baird
Douglas Bader
Robert Baden-Powell
Roger Bacon
Francis Bacon
Johann Sebastian Bach
Lauren Bacall


Charles Babbage
Gladys Aylward
Gene Autry
Jane Austen
Marcus Aurelius
Augustus
St. Augustine of Canterbury
St. Augustine of Hippo
Saint Audrey
Clement Attlee
Attila the Hun
Charles Atlas
Rowan Atkinson
Æthelstan
Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
John Jacob Astor
Philip Astley
Fred Astaire
H. H. Asquith
Isaac Asimov
Ashoka the Great
Laura Ashley
Francis Asbury
King Arthur
Chester A. Arthur
Benedict Arnold
Neil Armstrong


Louis Armstrong
Lance Armstrong
Edwin Howard Armstrong
Giorgio Armani
Richard Arkwright
Aristotle
Aristophanes
Elizabeth Arden
Archimedes
Jeffrey Archer
Yasser Arafat
Thomas Aquinas
Johnny Appleseed
Nicolas Appert
Marcus Gavius Apicius
Mark Antony
Susan B. Anthony
Anthony of Padua
Anthony the Great
Anselm of Canterbury
Saint Ansgar
Anne, Queen of Great Britain
Anne, Princess Royal
Anne Of Cleves
Maya Angelou
Saint Andrew
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Thursday, 25 July 2013

Daniel Defoe

NAME Daniel Defoe (originally Daniel Foe).

WHAT FAMOUS FOR The author of Robinson Crusoe, often regarded as the founder of the English novel and a pioneer of modern journalism.

BIRTH Born in 1660 in Fore Street, Applegate, London.

FAMILY BACKGROUND His father, James Foe, was a dissenting butcher and candle merchant. His mother, Alice Foe, died before Daniel turned ten.

CHILDHOOD Growing up in the parish of St. Giles Cripplegate, his father, James Foe, enjoyed success as a tallow chandler, a member of the Worshipful Company of Butchers.

Defoe's formative years were indelibly marked by a series of defining events that reshaped London's landscape. At the tender age of five, he witnessed the horrors of the Great Plague of London in 1665, a catastrophe that claimed an estimated 70,000 lives. The following year, the Great Fire roared through the city, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Defoe's neighborhood was particularly affected, with only his home and two others miraculously spared. As if these weren't enough, young Defoe, at around seven years old, bore witness to a Dutch attack on the English town of Chatham during the 1667 Raid on the Medway.

EDUCATION Defoe's family belonged to the Protestant dissenters, a religious group that challenged the authority of the Church of England. This religious affiliation significantly impacted his educational path. Unlike his contemporaries, Defoe wasn't destined for the halls of a traditional English university, which were closed to dissenters at the time.

At the age of 14, Defoe embarked on his academic journey at a dissenting academy run by Reverend James Fisher in Dorking, Surrey. He later continued his education at Charles Morton's dissenting academy in Newington Green. These academies provided a well-rounded education, encompassing classical subjects like Latin and Greek alongside modern languages such as French, Italian, and Spanish. History and geography were also part of the curriculum, offering a broader perspective than what a typical English university education of the time might have provided. Geography was his strongest subject.

This focus on a clear and concise writing style, coupled with influences from the Bible and John Bunyan's works, played a significant role in shaping Defoe's own literary voice. Despite his extensive education, Defoe lacked the formal classical training that distinguished his literary contemporaries like Jonathan Swift and Alexander Pope. This outsider status would come to influence his writing career and his ability to interact with other prominent writers of his era.

CAREER RECORD 1676 Followed his father into trade eventually setting up as a merchant selling everything from fine stockings to the glands of civet cards.

1683/84 Hosier merchant in Cornhill

1692 Went bankrupt

1692-95 Acquired control of a tile and brick factory

1695 Obtained a government post

Late 1690s and early 1700s Turned his hand to commerce and traded in everything from marine insurance to liquor and brickworks (it didn't work for him) . As thick as a brick at business and finally overreached himself with his breeding of civit cats for the perfume industry and ended up in Newgate prison a bankrupt. 

1703-14 Ran his own newspaper The Review then The Mercator. News was scarce sometimes so he made up reports to print in it. It appeared three times a week even when he was in prison for libel. 

1707 He was employed by the government as a propagandist and opinion former in Scotland during the manoeuvres for the 1707 union with England.

1719 Wrote Robinson Crusoe

APPEARANCE While time may have obscured much of Daniel Defoe's physical appearance, historical glimpses offer a chance to piece together a portrait of the man behind the words. Our most detailed account comes from a 1703 reward poster issued for Defoe's capture following a charge of seditious libel. This description portrays him at around 40 years old, of average height and lean build. His complexion was brown, and his dark brown hair, likely covered by a wig as was the fashion of the time. Keen eyes, noted as grey, peered out from a face marked by a prominent hooked nose, a sharp chin, and a noticeable mole near his mouth.

 The 1703 description, presented at a time when authorities sought his capture, offers a unique window into Defoe's physical characteristics during his middle years.

Portrait of Daniel Defoe, National Maritime Museum, London

FASHION He favored practical but respectable clothing befitting a merchant and writer. Men's fashions in the 17th and 18th centuries included wigs, long coats, waistcoats, and breeches.

A portrait in later life, whose authenticity as a true likeness has been debated, depicts him adorned in a blue and orange gown, a style typical of the gentry. A brown, full-bottomed wig completes the attire. The portrait presents him in half-length, facing the viewer's right.

CHARACTER Defoe was zealous, industrious, and pragmatic. He worked seven days a week and wrote with passion and conviction. Highly intelligent and curious, Defoe was independent-minded and often controversial in his views.

SPEAKING VOICE Defoe likely had a persuasive, authoritative speaking voice, given his success as a propagandist and public figure.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Daniel Defoe's writing, particularly his novels, is infused with a dry wit and a keen sense of the absurd. He masterfully employs various comedic techniques, including situational irony, satire, and ironic narration.

One prominent example of Defoe's humor lies in his use of situational irony. In Robinson Crusoe, the protagonist, after immense labor, constructs a large canoe. However, he soon realizes the impossibility of launching it, a moment that underscores Crusoe's initial hubris and highlights the limitations of his planning. Similarly, in Moll Flanders, Moll's attempts at thievery often lead to unexpected and comical consequences. For instance, after stealing a horse, she finds herself at a loss for what to do with it, ultimately returning it to another inn with a note of apology.

Defoe's humor frequently serves a satirical purpose. In The True-Born Englishman, he employs wit and irony to dismantle prevailing notions of English racial superiority. This satirical critique challenges the very foundations of national identity. Similarly, his portrayal of "gentlemen" in Moll Flanders satirizes the concept, depicting them as often behaving in ways unbecoming of their supposed social standing.

Furthermore, Defoe excels at creating humorous scenes and characters. In Moll Flanders, Moll's attempt to steal during a fire results in a comical mishap that nearly derails her criminal enterprise. The scene at Bartholomew Fair, where she robs a drunken gentleman, is presented with a touch of humor, particularly in Moll's self-justification using biblical references.

Exaggeration and affectation also contribute to the humor in Defoe's works. Moll Flanders' exaggerated behavior and pretensions, especially in her later years, are often presented in a manner that invites reader amusement. Similarly, the exaggerated importance she attaches to her son Humphry in America adds an element of absurdity to her character.

Finally, Defoe's use of ironic narration enhances the comedic effect. In Moll Flanders, the contrast between the older, penitent narrator and the younger, more impulsive and sinful character creates a sense of incongruity that is inherently humorous. In Robinson Crusoe, the ironic juxtaposition of Crusoe's initial despair and his eventual discovery of abundance on the desolate island creates a surprising and amusing twist.

While often subtle and intertwined with his social and political commentary, Defoe's humor is a significant aspect of his writing. His ability to craft witty situations, satirize societal norms, and employ ironic narration adds a layer of depth and engagement to his narratives, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.

RELATIONSHIPS Daniel Defoe married Mary Tuffley on January 1, 1684, at St. Botolph Aldgate in London. Mary was the daughter of a London merchant, and she brought a substantial dowry of £3,700 to the marriage, which was a considerable sum at the time.

Their marriage lasted for 47 years until Defoe's death in 1731. While not much is known about Mary herself, she is believed to have been a loyal, capable, and devoted wife. However, the marriage may have faced challenges due to Defoe's recurring debts and political difficulties.

Daniel and Mary had eight children together, of whom six survived to maturity

MONEY AND FAME Daniel Defoe's entrepreneurial ventures were not always successful. He faced significant financial setbacks, including a bankruptcy in 1692 with debts exceeding £17,000. 

His fortunes changed for a while with the publication of his satirical poem, "The True Born Englishman," in 1701. This work quickly became a bestseller in England and was considered the best-selling poem of its time.

However, financial difficulties continued to plague Defoe In 1703, while imprisoned, his business ventures collapsed, leading to further financial losses. This period forced him to turn to journalism as his primary source of income.

The publication of Robinson Crusoe on April 25, 1719 brought Defoe widespread fame and generated substantial profits for his publishers, exceeding £1000. 

Even later in his life, Defoe faced financial challenges. In 1730, he was forced to flee from creditors who pursued debts dating back an astonishing forty years.

FOOD AND DRINK Daniel Defoe's writings, particularly Robinson Crusoe, provide insights into the food culture of the time, including knowledge of bread-making, cheese production, and meat preservation. He emphasizes the importance of a varied diet, highlighting Crusoe's efforts to cultivate crops and raise livestock on his isolated island. Defoe also demonstrates an awareness of the nutritional value of different foods, recognizing the significance of grains and meat in a balanced diet.

Regarding alcohol, Defoe was acutely aware of the prevalent drinking culture in England. He observed the rise in popularity of gin among the poor, commenting on the appeal of "Geneva" to the masses. While initially supportive of the liberalization of distilling, he later expressed concerns about the detrimental effects of excessive gin consumption, fearing it would lead to a decline in the health of the nation. His writings also mention various alcoholic beverages commonly consumed during his time, including canary, malmsey, sack, and tent wines.

Defoe's works reveal certain attitudes towards food and drink. He strongly advocated for moderation, particularly in alcohol consumption, warning against excessive drinking, especially during times of crisis. Food and drink also held significant cultural and social importance. In Robinson Crusoe, Defoe utilizes food as a means of demonstrating Crusoe's ingenuity and resourcefulness in adapting to his challenging environment. Furthermore, he acknowledges the medicinal beliefs of his time, recognizing the perceived health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption in warding off melancholy and illness.

MUSIC AND ARTS Defoe had an interest in painting. He reportedly did not hesitate to identify himself as an expert on painting, although his interest was not focused on "the thing itself." Defoe pProposed an academy of painting in his work "Augusta Triumphans" (1728).

Defoe admired craftsmanship, particularly in textiles, as noted in his travel writings.

LITERATURE Daniel Defoe possessed a remarkable ability to observe human nature. A prolific writer, he authored over 250 books and 500 written works across a diverse range of subjects, including history, biography, sociology, travel, manuals of conduct, economics, and political pamphlets. His dedication to his craft was extraordinary, even undertaking the demanding task of single-handedly producing a newspaper three times a week for six months – a feat that stands in stark contrast to Crusoe's reliance on Friday for assistance.

Daniel Defoe began his writing career in the late 17th century, initially focusing on political and social commentary. He published his first literary piece, a political pamphlet, in 1683. In 1697, he authored An Essay on Projects, outlining various social reforms. His satirical poem "The True-Born Englishman" (1701) challenged prevailing notions of racial purity in England.

In the early 18th century, Defoe established himself as a prominent journalist and political writer. He launched The Review in 1704, a tri-weekly periodical he largely wrote himself until 1713. His prolific output of political pamphlets often brought him into conflict with the authorities. He also served as a secret agent, using his writing to influence public opinion.

At the age of 59, Defoe embarked on a new phase of his career, turning his attention to fiction. In 1719, he published Robinson Crusoe, widely considered one of the first English novels. his groundbreaking novel, often considered the birth of the English novel, was inspired by the true story of Alexander Selkirk, a castaway who spent four years marooned on a remote island in the South Pacific, before being rescued on February 2, 1709 by English captain Woodes Rogers and the crew of the privateering ship Duke.

Defoe, a journalist by trade, had encountered Selkirk in Bristol and used his experiences as the foundation for his fictional narrative. The novel's immediate success, generating over £1000 in profits for its publishers, solidified Defoe's literary reputation.

The novel's enduring power lies in its exploration of human resilience, exemplified by the iconic scene of Crusoe's discovery of footprints on the otherwise deserted island.

Frontispiece of 1st edition of Robinson Cruose by Daniel Defoe

Following the success of Robinson Crusoe, Defoe quickly penned a sequel, The Further Adventures of Robinson Crusoe, and a subsequent volume, Serious Reflections, which offered a more philosophical reflection on the events of the first book. 

In 1722, Defoe published Moll Flanders, a compelling tale of a woman navigating a life of crime and redemption. This novel, often considered controversial for its frank depiction of female sexuality, drew inspiration from the popular "Newgate Calendar," a collection of criminal biographies.

This was followed by several other notable works of fiction, including Colonel Jack (1722), A Journal of the Plague Year (1722), and Roxana (1724)

Defoe's literary output continued with A Tour Through the Whole Island of Great Britain (1724-26), one of the earliest travelogues of its kind.

NATURE He had a strong appreciation for geography, often describing landscapes and their utility in his travelogues.

PETS In 1692, Defoe purchased 70 civet cats for £850 as an investment. He established a civet cat farm in Newington Green, Stoke Newington. Defoe was known as a "Civet-Cat Merchant" due to this venture 

The purpose of keeping civet cats was primarily commercial: Civet cats were prized for their musk, which was used in the perfume industry.The musk was obtained by scraping the cats' anal glands, a painful process that could be fatal if done too frequently. 

Unfortunately, like many of his other entrepreneurial efforts, the civet cat business was not a lasting success. 

HOBBIES AND SPORTS His hobbies revolved around writing, observing human behavior, and promoting political ideas.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Defoe was interested in practical sciences and economic theory, which he incorporated into his writings.

Defoe showed curiosity about scientific and technological advancements and wrote about various inventions and innovations in his works. 

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY As a zealous evangelical Puritan, Defoe's works often reflected his faith, In 1722 he wrote: "There has been no age since the foundation and formation of the Christian church that was as ever as bad as the age we live in now," lamenting the prevalence of social ills such as cockfighting, adultery among leaders, and mass drunkenness.

Defoe's works often reflected his faith and belief in divine providence. He was a zealous advocate for religious tolerance and vehemently opposed ecclesiastical intolerance.

Defoe's Robinson Crusoe exemplifies the Protestant work ethic. Even marooned on a desert island, Crusoe adheres to this ethos, diligently managing his resources, working tirelessly, and reaping the rewards of his labor. This industriousness is underpinned by his unwavering faith in God's favor upon those who demonstrate a strong work ethic and financial prudence.

Defoe's satirical poem, "The True Born Englishman," poignantly captures the hypocrisy of religious institutions:

"Whenever God erects a house of prayer,

The devil always builds a chapel there,

And 'twill be found upon examination,

The latter has the largest congregation."

This excerpt highlights Defoe's sharp wit and his critical and his critical assessment of religious institutions and their practices.

POLITICS Defoe was a vocal and often controversial figure, never shying away from expressing his opinions. He was a staunch defender of William III through his insightful political pamphlets. 

He subsequently served as a secret agent for successive monarchs, including William III, Queen Anne, and King George I. His clandestine activities encompassed a wide range of assignments. He infiltrated Jacobite groups in Scotland, gathering intelligence on their activities and advocating for the union of Scotland and England. Notably, Defoe's loyalties were not always fixed; he is known to have served both the Whig and Tory factions at different times.

SCANDAL Daniel Defoe was a controversial figure who frequently clashed with the authorities. His outspoken views led to numerous imprisonments. He spent six months in Newgate Prison in 1702 after publishing "The Shortest Way with the Dissenters," a satirical pamphlet that ironically advocated for the persecution of Dissenters. This imprisonment, however, led to an unexpected turn of events. Robert Harley, the Speaker of the House of Commons, secured Defoe's release, likely on the condition that he become a secret agent and government propagandist.

Defoe's outspokenness also landed him in the pillory on three separate occasions. During one such incident, a torrential thunderstorm provided a surprising twist. Instead of the usual barrage of fruit and vegetables, the sympathetic crowd showered him with flowers. Undeterred, Defoe used the opportunity to sell copies of the pamphlet that had landed him in this predicament. 

Daniel Defoe in the pillory, 1862 line engraving by James Charles Armytage after Eyre Crowe

MILITARY RECORD Daniel Defoe's life was intertwined with the tumultuous political landscape of late 17th and early 18th-century England. He participated in the ill-fated Monmouth Rebellion in 1685, managing to escape the devastating defeat at the Battle of Sedgemoor.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS The stress of his tumultuous career, marked by bankruptcies, imprisonments, and political controversy, undoubtedly took a toll on his physical and mental well-being. Imprisonments, particularly his time in Newgate, were harsh and often came with poor nutrition, exposure to illness, and physical confinement, which could weaken a person's constitution. Despite these challenges, Defoe demonstrated remarkable resilience, continuing to write prolifically even under extreme pressure and adversity.

Hs death at the age of 71 suggests that he managed to maintain a relatively robust constitution for someone of his era.

HOMES Daniel Defoe lived in various locations throughout his life, with two residences standing out in particular.

He resided at 95 Stoke Newington Church Street during a significant period of his writing career. This house, likely built around 1700, served as the birthplace of his most famous work, Robinson Crusoe, in 1719. Defoe lived here in relative comfort, owning a large house and keeping a coach. He shared this home with his three daughters, who were renowned for their beauty, education, and conduct. However, this period of prosperity was not to last.

In stark contrast, Defoe's final years were spent in more humble lodgings at Ropemaker's Alley, Moorfields, not far from his birthplace in Cripplegate. He died in these lodgings likely while hiding from creditors due to financial difficulties. This marked a significant decline in his fortunes compared to the relative comfort he had enjoyed in Stoke Newington.

TRAVEL Daniel Defoe was a seasoned traveler whose journeys played a crucial role in shaping his worldview and influencing his writing.

In his early career as a hosier merchant in the 1680s, Defoe embarked on extensive travels across western Europe, visiting countries such as Holland, France, and Spain. These journeys not only served his commercial interests but also fostered a lifelong fascination with travel and observation.

Later, while working for politician Robert Harley in the early 18th century and during his time as a government operative, Defoe continued to travel extensively throughout Britain and Western Europe. These experiences, combined with his earlier mercantile travels, provided a wealth of knowledge that he later drew upon for his celebrated travelogue, A Tour Through the Whole Island of Great Britain.

A Tour reveals Defoe's keen observations of both the industrial and natural landscapes of Britain. He extolled the virtues of industrial progress, praising the textile factories of Halifax as "the most agreeable sight I ever saw." In contrast, he viewed the unspoilt countryside around Lancaster with a degree of apprehension, describing it with "a kind of unhospitable terror" and noting its lack of economic activity.

Defoe's travels significantly impacted his literary output. His experiences abroad likely informed the foreign settings and cultural details found in novels such as Robinson Crusoe and Moll Flanders. Moreover, his detailed observations of British towns, industries, and landscapes in A Tour provide a valuable and insightful snapshot of early 18th-century Britain.

DEATH Daniel Defoe died on April 24, 1731, at the age of approximately 71, in Ropemakers Alley, Moorfields, London. His final days were marked by financial hardship, and he likely sought refuge in these lodgings to avoid creditors. Defoe died in relative obscurity, a stark contrast to the enduring fame his works would achieve posthumously. The official cause of death was recorded as "lethargy," although it is suspected that he may have suffered a stroke.

Defoe was interred in Bunhill Fields Burial Ground, a nonconformist cemetery just outside the City of London. Initially, his grave was marked by a simple headstone. According to an unconfirmed rumor, he may have been buried under the surname "Dabow" due to a clerical error by the gravedigger.

It was not until nearly 140 years after his death that Defoe received a more fitting memorial. In 1870, a public appeal, spearheaded by the children's magazine Christian World, raised £150 from 1,700 contributors to fund a new monument. The resulting marble obelisk, designed by C.C. Creeke and carved by sculptor Samuel Horner, was unveiled on September 16, 1870, with three of Defoe's great-granddaughters in attendance.

Today, visitors to Bunhill Fields can see Defoe's impressive obelisk, a lasting testament to his enduring literary legacy.

Bunhill Fields monument detail by Edwardx Wikipedia

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Daniel Defoe’s legacy, particularly through Robinson Crusoe, has left an indelible mark on popular culture. His novel has inspired adaptations, references, and reinterpretations across a wide range of media:

1. MUSIC

Art of Noise: The 1989 LP Below the Waste includes a track titled "Robinson Crusoe," blending the novel's themes with the band's avant-garde electronic sound.

Cud: The British indie band released the single "Robinson Crusoe" in 1990, which reached #86 on the UK singles chart, showing the enduring resonance of Defoe's character in modern pop music.

Ragtime Standard: The 1916 Broadway show Robinson Crusoe Junior featured the novelty ragtime song "Where Did Robinson Crusoe Go with Friday on a Saturday Night?" Its playful title captured the humor and cultural penetration of Defoe's story into early 20th-century entertainment.

Offenbach Operetta: French composer Jacques Offenbach adapted Robinson Crusoe into an operetta, adding a whimsical and melodic interpretation to Defoe’s classic adventure.

2. FILM AND TELEVISION

Man Friday (1975): Peter O’Toole starred as Robinson Crusoe opposite Richard Roundtree as Friday in an unconventional retelling of the story. The film’s unique twist featured the pair hang gliding, symbolizing the breaking of traditional boundaries in their relationship.

Robinson Crusoe on Mars (1964): A science fiction retelling set on Mars, this version modernized the concept of isolation and survival by transposing the story into an extraterrestrial setting.

The Adventures of Robinson Crusoe (1952): Irish actor Dan O’Herlihy delivered an Oscar-nominated performance as Crusoe in a traditional adaptation. O’Herlihy’s nuanced portrayal brought authenticity to the character's resilience and resourcefulness.

Television Adaptations: Over the decades, Robinson Crusoe has been retold in various forms, including animated series, miniseries, and feature films, highlighting the story’s universality and appeal.

ACHIEVEMENTS Author of Robinson Crusoe, one of the most influential novels in English literature.

Pioneered the development of the English novel as a literary genre.

Published A Tour Through the Whole Island of Great Britain, one of the first travel books.

A significant figure in English journalism and political commentary.

Shaped public discourse and influenced social and political thought.
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Saturday, 20 July 2013

Claude Debussy

NAME Claude Debussy

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Claude Debussy was a revolutionary French composer, known for pioneering Impressionist music, though he disliked the label. His innovative harmonies and textures reshaped Western music, influencing countless composers.

BIRTH Claude Debussy was born on August 22, 1862, in St Germain-en-Laye, France.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Claude Debussy was born into a modest household, the eldest of five children born to Manuel-Achille Debussy and Victorine Manoury Debussy.

Debussy's father, Manuel-Achille, was a man of many hats. Throughout his life, he dabbled in various occupations, including running a china shop with his wife, working as a traveling salesman, serving in the military, and even assisting a printer. Victorine, on the other hand, contributed to the family income by working as a seamstress and helping out at the china shop.

The Debussy family grappled with financial instability throughout Claude's childhood. This resulted in frequent moves. They initially resided in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, where they ran their china shop. Later, they moved to Clichy in Northern Paris, where they lived with Claude's grandmother. In 1867, they relocated to Paris itself, settling in the Rue Saint-Honoré. The Franco-Prussian War in 1870 forced another move, with Claude and his sister Adèle being sent to Cannes to stay with their aunt Clementine.

Despite their financial struggles, the Debussys recognized and nurtured Claude's musical talent. His aunt even arranged for his first piano lessons in Cannes. Recognizing his potential, Charles de Sivry, a family friend, recommended Madame Mauté de Fleurville. She became Claude's piano teacher and prepared him for the prestigious Paris Conservatoire, a turning point that would shape his musical future.

CHILDHOOD Debussy's childhood was marked by a sense of isolation and a lack of social interaction. He never attended a regular school, which likely contributed to his awkward and unsociable demeanor. This unusual upbringing, coupled with his family's financial struggles, played a significant role in shaping his sensitive and unique artistic perspective.

EDUCATION Claude Debussy's musical journey began at the tender age of 7. He started taking piano lessons with Madame Maute de Fleurville, who interestingly had connections to the legendary Frédéric Chopin. Debussy's exceptional talent was undeniable, and it paved the way for his admission to the prestigious Paris Conservatoire at the young age of 10 in 1872.

The Conservatoire served as Debussy's training ground for the next 11 years. He honed his skills under the guidance of various instructors, including Antoine François Marmontel for piano, Albert Lavignac for solfège, Ernest Guiraud for composition, Émile Durand for harmony, and the renowned César Franck for organ. Despite his undeniable talent, Debussy wasn't exactly a model student. He was known for being tardy, skipping classes frequently, and exhibiting mood swings. While his teachers and peers acknowledged his abilities, they found his early compositions to be rather strange and unconventional.

CAREER RECORD Debussy began his career as a pianist and later gained recognition as a composer. He won the Grand Prix de Rome in 1884 for his cantata "L'enfant prodigue." His symphonic poem "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune" and opera Pelléas et Mélisande solidified his fame.

APPEARANCE Debussy was described as having a pale complexion, a flabby build, vivacious black eyes, a prominent forehead, and long, dark, curly hair.

FASHION He often dressed neatly and preferred an understated elegance, reflective of his love for order and clarity.

CHARACTER Debussy was kown for his introspective and sensitive nature. He was nervous and fanatical about his music. He valued order and precision in his work but was known for being "desperately careless" as a student.

SPEAKING VOICE He spoke softly and slowly, carefully choosing his words.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Claude Debussy possessed a mischievous and ironic sense of humor that permeated both his personality and his music. His wit, while charming, could also be biting, reflecting the complexities of his character.

Debussy's humor manifested in various ways. He found delight in the playful world of his daughter, which inspired playful moments within his compositions. Irony was a significant part of his nature, as noted by André Suarès, who described Debussy as having a "mischievous sense of humor."

This humor even extended into his music. For instance, the first of his Etudes begins with a straightforward C major scale, reminiscent of a mundane childhood exercise. However, Debussy subverts expectations by introducing "rude, percussive A flats," creating an amusing clash between order and playful disruption. (1)

Beyond his music, Debussy was known for his "decidedly tart humor" when critiquing other composers or expressing his opinions. His unconventional responses, such as his simple explanation of "You know I'm an oaf" when declining to attend a party thrown in his honor by Marcel Proust, further highlight his unique and humorous personality. (2)

Debussy's humor served as a counterpoint to his serious and innovative musical pursuits, adding depth and charm to his multifaceted character.

RELATIONSHIPS Claude Debussy's personal life was a whirlwind of passionate relationships, each leaving a significant mark on him.

His first great love came at the young age of 18 when he began an eight-year affair with Marie-Blanche Vasnier, a married woman 14 years his senior. Vasnier became his muse, inspiring 27 songs and serving as a pillar during his formative years as a composer.

Following Vasnier, Debussy entered a tempestuous relationship with Gabrielle Dupont, a tailor's daughter. This relationship overlapped with a brief engagement to singer Thérèse Roger, highlighting the complexities of Debussy's romantic life.

Seeking stability, Debussy left Dupont for Rosalie (Lily) Texier, a fashion model. They married on October 19, 1899 at the town hall of the 17th arrondissement in Paris. The witnesses for this civil ceremony were Pierre Louÿs, Eric Satie, and Lucien Fontaine. However, their union was fraught with instability and the threat of suicide from both parties if the marriage failed foreshadowed its tumultuous path.

Lilly Debussy in 1902. Bibliothèque nationale de France

In 1904, while still married to Texier, Debussy embarked on a passionate affair with Emma Bardac, the wife of a Parisian banker. This secret relationship ultimately led to his divorce from Texier.  Debussy's departure from both Dupont and Texier caused public scandals, with friends ostracizing him for his treatment of women.

Despite the drama, Debussy married Emma Bardac in 1908, a move some perceived as an attempt to elevate his social status.  

Claude Debussy had one child, a daughter named Claude-Emma Debussy, affectionately known as "Chou-Chou". She was born on October 30, 1905, in Paris. Debussy was deeply devoted to his daughter and composed the piano suite "Children's Corner" for her in 1908 when she was three years old.

Debussy dedicated "Children's Corner" to Chou-Chou with the inscription: "To my dear little Chouchou, with tender apologies from her father for what follows". The suite was inspired by Chou-Chou's toys and childhood experiences, reflecting Debussy's delight in fatherhood despite being in his 50s.

Tragically, Claude-Emma's life was cut short. She died of diphtheria in 1919 at the age of 14, just over a year after her father's death.

MONEY AND FAME Claude Debussy, despite his eventual fame, faced significant financial challenges throughout much of his career. In his early years, Debussy lived modestly, sharing a humble apartment with his first wife, a milliner. His income primarily stemmed from selling compositions to publishers, receiving performance royalties, and occasional advances. He also supplemented his income by performing and writing music criticism.

From 1902 to 1917, Debussy's financial situation gradually improved. His total income during this period amounted to $69,613, with sales, royalties, advances, and other sources contributing significantly. However, his income remained relatively modest, and he frequently relied on the support of friends and benefactors to maintain financial stability.

Debussy's path to international fame was gradual. It wasn't until his opera Pelléas et Mélisande premiered in 1902 that he achieved widespread recognition. Despite his growing reputation, financial concerns persisted. To supplement his income, he often took on conducting and performance engagements.

After marrying Emma Bardac in 1908, Debussy adopted a more affluent lifestyle, moving into a larger home and employing household staff. This elevated lifestyle, primarily funded by his compositional income rather than his wife's modest pension, increased his financial burdens. He even composed "Les Soirs illuminés par l'ardeur du charbon" in exchange for coal during World War I.

Although Debussy's legacy as one of France's greatest composers is now firmly established, his life was a testament to the complex relationship between artistic vision and financial stability. He navigated the challenges of a precarious financial situation while striving to achieve artistic excellence.

FOOD AND DRINK As a child, Debussy was teased for preferring dainty and expensive chocolates.

As an adult, Debussy was a true gourmand, with a refined palate and a deep appreciation for fine dining. He was known to savor the finer things in life, particularly enjoying lamb cutlets.

While Debussy certainly enjoyed the finer things in life, his relationship with alcohol was complex. In his later years, he reportedly relied on a jug of wine to complete his compositions. Furthermore, Debussy was a heavy smoker, a habit that likely contributed to his later health issues.

COMPOSING Claude Debussy, one of the most influential composers of all time, was a man of contradictions, brilliance, and peculiar charm. 

By age ten, his talent was undeniable. Enrolled in the prestigious Paris Conservatoire, he became a wunderkind of sorts, dazzling teachers with his piano skills while simultaneously exasperating them with his careless attitude. One report from 1879 summed him up perfectly: “A pupil with a considerable gift for harmony but desperately careless.” If Debussy had a theme song as a student, it would likely have been played out of tune on purpose, just to see how people reacted.

The breakthrough came in 1884 when he won the coveted Prix de Rome with his cantata L'enfant prodigue. It earned him a stint in Rome, though he was far more interested in the cafés and culture of Paris than in composing in the Eternal City.

Often lumped in with the Impressionists—a label he loathed—Debussy’s music was a world unto itself. His groundbreaking 1894 piece, "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune," was described by one contemporary as "a symphonic poem that dissolves time." It was an instant success, even if Debussy himself often took months (sometimes years) to settle on a single chord. His music seemed to float, shimmer, and seduce, like a Monet painting you could hear.

Debussy’s opera Pelléas et Mélisande followed in 1902, cementing his reputation as a musical innovator. The Parisian public, of course, responded in typical fashion—by heckling the singers and calling the music "utterly tuneless." Over time, however, the piece won acclaim for its haunting beauty and unorthodox structure.

Debussy often spoke of his fascination with the sea, but in truth, he spent more time imagining it than visiting it. His masterpiece "La Mer" owes more to paintings and poetry than to the salty spray of ocean air. Ironically, part of it was written on the landlocked Channel Island of Jersey, where the composer was hiding out from yet another scandal.

By 1909, Debussy’s health began to decline. Diagnosed with rectal cancer, he soldiered on, even writing a piece in exchange for coal during World War I. The composition, "Les Soirs illuminés par l'ardeur du charbon," was both a practical gesture and a poignant reminder of his waning energy.

Debussy’s music is a testament to the power of imagination. Whether it’s the dreamy strains of "Clair de Lune," the evocative "Nocturnes," or the shimmering tones of "La Mer," his works continue to transport listeners to worlds of beauty and wonder. And while his life was far from perfect, it was undeniably full—a kaleidoscope of passion, controversy, and artistic brilliance. If there’s one thing we can learn from Debussy, it’s that even the messiest lives can produce the most exquisite art.

MUSIC AND ARTS Claude Debussy's musical style was deeply influenced by the visual arts, particularly the Pre-Raphaelite painters who inspired his early works. His seascape masterpiece, "La Mer," reflects the artistic philosophies of J.M.W. Turner and Claude Monet. Furthermore, Debussy had a strong affinity for the Symbolist movement in visual arts, which emphasized suggestion and evocation over direct representation, a philosophy that deeply resonated with his own musical approach.

LITERATURE Debussy had a strong affinity for Edgar Allan Poe, even writing two pieces of theatre based on Poe's stories

Debussy loved poetry and often incorporated literary influences into his music, as seen in his settings of Symbolist poet Paul Verlaine's poems and his opera Pelléas et Mélisande.

Debussy not only appreciated poetry but also wrote his own. He composed the "Proses lyriques," a set of four songs for which he wrote both the music and the poetry.

NATURE Debussy was deeply inspired by nature and its effects on the human experience, which is reflected in many of his composition. 

Although he rarely visited the sea, it inspired compositions like "La Mer."

PETS Claude Debussy had long-haired Angora cats, which he was very fond of. Debussy allowed his Angora cats to roam freely in his workspace, even permitting them to walk on his desk and papers while he worked.

In addition to cats, Debussy also owned dogs. They included a fox terrier named Boy, and a collie called Xanto

HOBBIES AND SPORTS He enjoyed engaging in conversations about art, nature, and spiritual topics, often through his alter ego "Monsieur Croche."

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Debussy's philosophy and theology were characterized by a deep reverence for nature, a rejection of traditional religious structures, and a belief in the divine essence present in all aspects of the universe. This worldview profoundly influenced his innovative approach to music composition and his unique artistic vision.

POLITICS Debussy avoided political involvement, though his music reflected the cultural shifts of his time.

SCANDAL His affair with Emma Bardac and subsequent abandonment of Rosalie Texier caused public outrage. Bardac's family disowned her, and many of Debussy's friends distanced themselves from him.

"Pelléas et Mélisande" initially met with a hostile reception. The public, accustomed to more traditional opera, found the music strikingly unconventional, even "tuneless" in their ears. This was evident during the dress rehearsal, where hecklers impatiently shouted, "When will the orchestra stop tuning up?" and "Now give us some music!"

The opera's premiere on April 30, 1902 faced further resistance due to the casting of the Scottish soprano Mary Garden as Mélisande. While a celebrated performer, her French accent was not to the liking of the discerning Parisian audience, further fueling the initial hostility towards Debussy's groundbreaking work.

MILITARY RECORD Debussy did not serve in the military but lived through the Franco-Prussian War and World War I.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Debussy suffered from rectal cancer, which caused his death on March 25, 1918.

HOMES Debussy lived in various places, including Paris, Rome, and Eastbourne, where he stayed at the Grand Hotel during a turbulent time in his life. 

His birthplace and childhood home was located at 38 rue au Pain in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a 17th-century house where he spent his early years. His father operated a china shop on the ground floor. This house now serves as the Musée Claude-Debussy, a museum dedicated to the composer's life and work.

Rue au Pain, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, street of Debussy's birthplace

During the summers of 1901 and 1903, Debussy sought inspiration at the Bichain summer residence in Villeneuve-la-Guyard. This modest country house provided a serene environment where he composed his celebrated work, "La Mer." Currently undergoing restoration, it is envisioned as a future cultural space.

From 1904 until his death in 1918, Debussy resided at 80 Avenue du Bois de Boulogne in Paris, now known as Avenue Foch. This elegant home, located in a prestigious neighborhood near the Arc de Triomphe, was shared with Emma Bardac, who later became his wife. Debussy found solace in his garden and enjoyed leisurely walks in the nearby Bois de Boulogne park. The house is now privately owned.

TRAVEL Claude Debussy traveled to several notable places during his lifetime, including

Rome: Debussy won the prestigious Prix de Rome in 1884, which allowed him to study at the Villa Medici in Rome for three years.

London: Debussy visited London, where he spent time at the Tate Gallery. He was particularly impressed by Turner's paintings, which influenced his composition of "Estampes" the following summer in Bichain.

DEATH Claude Debussy died on March 25, 1918, at his home in Paris at the age of 55. He had been battling colon cancer for several years, which had been diagnosed in 1909 and progressed painfully despite surgery and radiation treatments.

Debussy's death occurred during World War I, while Paris was under German bombardment. Due to the ongoing conflict, a public funeral was not possible. Instead, a small funeral procession made its way through deserted streets of Paris to Père Lachaise Cemetery, where Debussy was temporarily interred. Only about 20 people attended this initial burial.

The following year, in 1919, Debussy's body was reinterred at its final resting place in Passy Cemetery, located in the 16th arrondissement of Paris. This fulfilled Debussy's wish to be buried "among the trees and the birds." His wife and daughter are also buried with him in this location.

Passy Cemetery, though small at only 4 acres, is notable for housing the graves of several famous individuals. Debussy's grave can be found there along with other notable figures like painter Édouard Manet and comedian Fernandel

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Debussy has been the subject of numerous biographies and documentaries. His compositions are frequently used to evoke emotion, dreamlike states, or moments of introspection. For example:

"Clair de Lune" has been featured in numerous films, including Ocean's Eleven (2001), The Right Stuff (1983), and The Twilight Saga: New Moon (2009), often underscoring reflective or romantic moments.

"Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune" appears in Terrence Malick’s The Tree of Life (2011), complementing its ethereal and contemplative tone.

"La Mer" has been used in various documentaries and period dramas to depict the ocean or evoke the sublime.

Debussy has been the subject of numerous documentaries that explore his life, music, and influence. 


In Literature, writers like Kazuo Ishiguro reference his music to underscore characters' depth and emotional landscapes.

His works have been used in luxury brand commercials, aligning their products with elegance and timeless beauty.

In recent years, classical music memes have brought Debussy into internet culture. Puns on his name ("Debussy is life") and playful takes on his music have made him a surprising favorite among younger, meme-savvy audiences.

ACHIEVEMENTS Debussy redefined classical music with groundbreaking works like "Clair de Lune," "La Mer," and "Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune." His contributions earned him a lasting legacy as one of the greatest composers in Western music history.

Sources (1) The American Scholar, (2) Piano TV

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