Lord Byron

NAME Lord Byron, 6th Baron Byron (real name George Gordon). Addressed as The Right Honourable Lord Byron (by strangers) and as Byron (the title, not the name) by friends. No one ever called him George after he became Byron, not even his mother.

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Lord Byron was a renowned British Romantic poet, known for his captivating personality, scandalous love affairs, and groundbreaking works like "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage" and "Don Juan."

BIRTH Born January 22, 1788 at 16 Holles Street, London.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Byron's  father, Captain John "Mad Jack" Byron, died when he was 3. He was brought up by his mother, Catherine Gordon of Gight, an impetuous, volatile Scot. His obese mother spoiled him as he was her only child. 

His grandfather was Admiral "Fairweather" Jack. Captain Byron spent all his inherited fortune. 

His temperamental mother and a Calvinist nurse raised the young Byron in Aberdeen. 

Catherine was a harsh and dependent parent, clinging to Byron one moment and denouncing him as a "lame brat" the next.

CHILDHOOD Byron was a lonely, affectionate boy, a fat, limping boy with a broad Scot’s accent. His over-protective mother kept George separated from his peers and his elder half-sister, Augusta.

He was forced to undergo painful and unsuccessful medical treatments throughout his childhood due to his club foot.

He claimed to have read more than 4,000 novels before the age of 15. 

He had dancing lessons with Mr. Francis Peacock of Peacock Close.  

EDUCATION Byron was educated at a local strict Calvinist Aberdeen Grammar School from 1794 to 1798, then at Dr. Glennie’s School in Dulwich from 1799 and Harrow from 1805.. 

At Harrow, to compensate for his club foot, he fought seven successive battles, winning six of them. 

A hedonist in school, Byron was popular and outgoing, though by his own admission he did very little schoolwork. He had a reputation as a ferocious enemy of bullies.

Byron went on to Trinity College, Cambridge University in 1805 , where he read much literature but cared little for other subjects. A strange and bellicose student, he left without a degree and deeply in debt in 1807 to pursue an extravagant lifestyle in London. 

CAREER RECORD In 1798, Byron succeeded his great-uncle as the 6th Lord Byron. 

Published his first poems anonymously in 1806.

He took his seat in the House of Lords in 1809.

Gained notoriety with the autobiographical poem "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage" (1812-1818), sparking "Byronmania" across Europe.

Produced a prolific body of work, including poems, satires, and plays.

Advocated for political and social reforms, often critiquing British society.

APPEARANCE Lord Byron possessed a striking appearance. Slender fingers contrasted with large, expressive grey eyes. His full mouth hinted at a charismatic personality, framed by a fashionable mustache (think Clark Gable, but with a touch of Romantic flair). His wavy chestnut hair added to his air of mystery.

Despite being born with a clubfoot, a source of deep insecurity, Byron carried himself with confidence. He overcame a stockier build in his youth, transforming himself into a heartthrob. By 18, he'd shed weight, showcasing his dedication.  His unconventional charm extended beyond physical perfection – he bit his nails, a quirk some found endearing.

Standing at a respectable 5' 8½", Byron defied fashion trends with his longer locks in the early 1820s. This, however, only added to his allure.

George Gordon Byron, 6th Baron Byron, by Richard Westall 

FASHION A trendsetter of his time, Byron embraced a flamboyant style. He favored loose, floppy cravats, often tied in a way that became a signature look, inspiring young men to emulate his open-collared swagger.  His travels left their mark –  rumor has it,  Biblioteca Classense in Ravenna even holds remnants of his sun-kissed skin!  In true Romantic spirit, Byron's arrival in Greece in 1823 was marked by a dramatic flourish – a plumed Homeric helmet, a bold choice that perfectly captured his unconventional spirit.

CHARACTER Lady Caroline Lamb famously described him as "mad, bad, and dangerous to know." While undoubtedly intelligent (his brain reportedly weighed a hefty 82oz at death, compared to the average 49oz), Byron battled a complex inner world. Manic depression fueled his legendary temper, leaving him even fearful of his own outbursts. Far from the stereotypical "manly" poet, Byron embraced his emotional depth.

Though aloof at times, his life pulsed with passion. He could be as lively and generous as he was morose and burdened by self-doubt. This unconventional spirit led to a reputation for flamboyance, eccentricity, and courting controversy. Despite his cynicism towards humanity, a fierce fire burned within him – a champion for the downtrodden.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Byron possessed a sharp wit that could sting. His playful sarcasm often landed with a mischievous wink.  One such instance involved a gift to his publisher, John Murray. Byron presented him with a handsome Bible, but with a sly alteration. Upon closer inspection, Murray would have discovered the word "robber" in John 18:40 (referencing the crowd demanding Barabbas' release) cleverly replaced with "publisher."  Though the Bible was quickly withdrawn from public view, the story became a testament to Byron's mischievous humor.

Beyond pranks, Byron's writing brimmed with wit. Lines like "But here I say the Turks were much mistaken / When hating hogs yet wished to save their bacon" showcase his sardonic brilliance. In fact, his masterpiece, "Don Juan," is considered by many to be the pinnacle of comic poetry, a testament to his enduring comedic talent.

Renowned for his acerbic sense of humour, Byron once gave his publisher John Murray a handsome Bible as a gift, in which he deleted the word "robber" from John 18:40 and substituted it with "publisher." The Bible was quickly removed from public view after a visitor noticed the alteration. 

Byron also wrote, "But here I say the Turks were much mistaken. When hating hogs yet wished to save their bacon." 

RELATIONSHIPS A serial heartthrob, Byron possessed a certain charm that captivated women.  However, his famous quote, "The more I see of men, the less I like them. If I could say so of women as well, all would be well," hints at a deeper cynicism.  His first heartbreak came at 14, when his neighbor Mary Chaworth, his "morning star," callously dismissed him for his disability.

Despite a reputation for innocence, Byron actively pursued relationships throughout Europe, even during his marriage.  His most scandalous affair, with his half-sister Augusta Leigh, fueled public outrage and pressured him into a union with the intelligent but incompatible Annabella Milbanke. They tied the knot on January 2, 1815 in the drawing room of her father's home at Seaham Hall, Durham. 

Portrait of Annabella Byron (nee Anne Isabella Milbanke) (1792-1860)

Their daughter, Ada, would become a pioneer in computer programming.

The marriage crumbled after a year, and Byron left England under a cloud of scandal.  He embarked on a series of passionate affairs, including one with Lady Caroline Lamb, who immortalized him in her gothic novel Glenarvon, His longest relationship was with Countess Teresa Guiccioli, a young Italian countess who remained by his side until his death.

Byron also fathered a daughter, Allegra, with Claire Clairmont, Mary Shelley's half-sister.  Tragically, Allegra died young in a convent.  Despite a strained relationship, Ada was buried beside her father at Hucknall, Nottingham.

MONEY AND FAME Lord Byron became a literary sensation, particularly in Germany, France, and America. Arguably the most popular English poet abroad, he achieved overnight fame with the publication of the first two cantos of "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage" in 1812. His reputation as a rebellious hero was further cemented with the release of "Don Juan."

Despite inheriting a sizeable estate, Newstead Abbey (valued at £140,000 in 1798) and a steady income, Byron's extravagant lifestyle led him into debt. By 1809, he owed a staggering £13,000. In an attempt to rectify the situation, he sold Newstead Abbey in 1818 for £94,500. Interestingly, this seemingly spendthrift poet was also known for moments of surprising frugality, as his exasperated servant Fletcher could attest.

FOOD AND DRINK Obsessed with maintaining a slim figure, Byron embraced a strict and rather unusual diet.  He was an early adopter of dieting, often surviving on a meager regimen of biscuits and soda water.  To further suppress his appetite, he even resorted to chewing tobacco.  Occasionally, he would allow himself a more substantial meal of fish, vegetables, and starches, but these indulgences were doused in vinegar, a supposed appetite suppressant.

Socially, Byron displayed a peculiar relationship with food.  He frequently declined dinner invitations, perhaps due to his dietary restrictions.  When it came to drinks, his choices were equally eclectic.  He favored gin and water, used a concoction of salts for an alleged mood boost, and served wine to guests in a human skull – a macabre detail that reflected his penchant for the dramatic.

Despite his dietary quirks, Byron wasn't entirely averse to culinary pleasure.  He enjoyed veal cutlets and even found poetry in the dinner bell, calling it the "Tucsin of the soul," hinting at the importance he placed on a good meal.

MUSIC AND ARTS Byron could be considered an early graffiti artist, having carved his name into the ancient temple of Sounion near Athens. 

He described the waltz as "a damned seesaw up and down sort of tune" and confessed to having no knowledge of painting, disliking it unless it reminded him of something he had seen or imagined.

LITERATURE Lord Byron, despite his prolific output, did not necessarily enjoy writing. He once remarked, "One of the pleasures of reading old letters is the knowledge that they need no answer." Byron habitually used a rhyming dictionary, and although his verses often seemed effortless, they did not reflect the hard work he put into finding the right words to rhyme. His complete works were published in 1833 by John Murray in 17 octavo volumes, including a biography by Thomas Moore.

Major Works:

1807: "Hours of Idleness" His first published work, it was sarcastically reviewed in the Edinburgh Review, prompting Byron to write the 1809 "English Bards and Scottish Reviewers" in response.

1812: "Childe Harold" This work romantically described tours of Portugal, Spain, and the Balkans with a melancholic tone. It is about a pilgrim who roams the world to escape from himself, and is semi-autobiographical. At the time, it eclipsed all other English poetry.

1814: "The Corsair" Written by Bryron while snowed up at Newstead Abbey with Augusta Leigh, this semi-autobiographical tale in verse  was published on February 1, 1814 by John Murray.  It sold 10,000 copies on its first day and over 25,000 copies in the next month.

1816: "The Dream" describes Byron's long love for Mary Chaworth and the disaster of his marriage to Annabella Milbanke.

1817: "Manfred" A poetic drama about a guilt-ridden outcast tormented by incestuous love who eventually finds release in death.

1819-1824: "Don Juan" Considered his masterpiece, this epic satire about the amorous adventurer was unpopular with critics, who found it morally deprived, but the general public loved it. Blackwood’s Magazine denounced Don Juan as “a filthy and impious poem.”

Byron also wrote racy memoirs in 1824, which were consigned to flames by his rival executors Hobhouse and Thomas Moore three days after news of his death reached England. Additionally, he wrote several verse plays which were produced but not enjoyed.

PETS A true animal lover, Byron defied convention and embraced a menagerie of furry and feathered companions. Unlike most students at Cambridge, where canines and felines were forbidden, Byron exploited a loophole and acquired a bear – perhaps hoping it would even ace his exams!

His loyalty extended beyond species. When admirers requested a lock of his hair, he'd playfully send them dog fur instead.  His most beloved companion was Boatswain, a bulldog immortalized in a touching epitaph that praised the dog's virtues and lack of human vices. Boatswain's final resting place at Newstead Abbey even boasts a grander monument than his master's!

Byron's travels resembled a Noah's Ark procession, with reports of  "40 carriages full of animals" accompanying him. Throughout his life, his menagerie included everything from geese (who attended social gatherings!) to monkeys, foxes, peacocks, cranes, and even a sickly cow.  He wasn't afraid to get his hands dirty either, famously nursing his rabies-stricken Boatswain with unwavering devotion.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Byron was determined to overcome his physical disability and became a skilled rider, swimmer, boxer, and marksman. He preferred swimming races to foot races. Byron was a keen swimmer, and his prowess in swimming was a source of great pride for him, even more so than his poetry.

Swimming Achievements:

Swam across the Dardanelles in imitation of Leander, who in Greek mythology crossed it each night to visit Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite.

After visiting a lady at a palazzo in Venice, Byron threw himself fully clothed into the Grand Canal and swam across. The next night, he did the same thing but to avoid being wounded by the oars of a gondolier, he swam with his right hand and held a torch in his left hand.

Swam the Hellespont (May 3, 1810), the stretch of water linking the Aegean with the Black Sea.

Also swam the mouth of the Tagus River (Lisbon, Portugal) and from the Lido to the Rialto Bridges (Venice, Italy).

Byron once sparred with John "Gentleman" Jackson, a former bare-knuckled champion, at Jackson's Bond Street gym, boxing in a dressing gown. He played for Harrow in the first Eton vs. Harrow cricket match in 1805. Not a keen shot, Byron, while sailing on the Hercules from Italy to Greece with his friend Trelawny, would secure dinner by firing at a live duck suspended in a wicker basket from the top of the mast. However, Byron did not partake of the kill.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Although Byron had little interest in formal education, his daughter Ada Lovelace inherited his mathematical talent. Ada worked with Charles Babbage on the Analytical Engine, making significant contributions to the field of computing.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY A thorn in the side of polite society, Byron reveled in defying expectations.  He held both conventional morality and organized religion, particularly the Church of England, in disdain. This is evident in his sardonic poem Don Juan, where he suggests rum might be more effective for calming the soul than religion.  His lifestyle and writings frequently drew moral condemnation.

However, beneath his rebellious exterior lay a surprising streak of compassion.  Despite his disdain for the establishment, Byron used his position in the House of Lords to advocate for the downtrodden.  His very first speech, delivered in 1812, addressed the plight of local stocking weavers.

SCANDAL  The fallout from his marital breakdown and rumored affair with his half-sister, Augusta Leigh, ostracized Byron.  A public scandal erupted, fueled by a sensational novel written by Augusta herself.  The humiliation culminated in a public snub at a social event, where a woman offered a patronizing whisper, "You see, you should have married me..."

Haunted by creditors and public scorn, Byron embarked on a self-imposed exile.  He wandered across Europe, encountering fellow Romantic poet Percy Shelley. Their famous night in Switzerland is said to have inspired Shelley's "Frankenstein."  In a rebellious act, Byron even defaced the ancient temple of Sounion in Greece by carving his name – a mark that endures to this day.

His departure from England mirrored the drama of his life.  He penned his farewell letters on stolen stationary – purloined from Napoleon's own imperial desk at Malmaison.

MILITARY RECORD Beyond poetry, Byron harbored a passion for liberty. He dabbled in Italian revolutionary politics, even joining the secretive Carbonari society.  His greatest championing of freedom came with the Greek War of Independence.

In 1823, he actively joined the fight, sailing to Missolonghi and being received as a hero.  He poured his energy and considerable financial resources into the cause, even forming his own unit, the "Byron Brigade."  However, his idealism was tempered by the reality of internal conflicts within the Greek forces.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Born with a deformed foot, Byron battled a physical limitation that cast a long shadow. He endured painful and largely ineffective treatments throughout his youth. However, by his teens, advancements in medicine offered some relief, improving his condition.

Despite this, Byron remained deeply self-conscious about his physical flaws. This insecurity, coupled with societal pressures about appearance, may have contributed to his struggles with food – possibly leading to disordered eating habits.

Adding to his challenges, Byron inherited a family history of melancholy, and he also suffered from epilepsy.  Tragically, just months before his death, a violent seizure struck him, which he attempted to self-medicate with a potent concoction of cider and brandy.

HOMES Early life (1789-1798):  Byron's early years were a mix of hardship and inheritance.  He spent time in Aberdeen, Scotland, before moving to Newstead Abbey, his ancestral home in Nottinghamshire.  Despite inheriting the title of 6th Baron Byron upon his great-uncle's death, the Abbey was in disrepair.

Education (1805-1808):  Byron pursued his studies at Cambridge University, residing first at Nevile's Court and then Trinity College.

London (1811-1816):  Following his time at Cambridge, Byron established himself in London, first at the Albany apartment block in Piccadilly and later on Bond Street.  This period marked the beginning of his literary career, with the iconic poem "Childe Harold" being written during his stay at the Albany.

Italy (1816-1823):  Seeking a fresh start after a personal scandal, Byron embarked on a self-imposed exile in Italy.  He resided in Venice for several years, first renting a flat near St. Mark's Square and later moving to the grand Mocenigo Palazzo.  His travels within Italy also took him to Ravenna and Pisa, where he continued his prolific writing.

Final years (1823-1824):  Byron's final act was a display of his commitment to liberty.  He arrived in Missolonghi, Greece, in 1823 to join the fight for independence and died there the following year.

TRAVEL Disappointed by the reception of his early poems, Byron embarked on a grand tour in 1809.  This European adventure, spanning Spain, Portugal, the Mediterranean, and Greece, fueled his creative fire. The exotic locales and rich history he encountered would later inspire his iconic poem, "Childe Harold's Pilgrimage."

In preparation for his self-imposed exile in Italy, Byron commissioned a luxurious carriage from the renowned coach-maker Baxter. This custom-built vehicle, a symbol of both extravagance and comfort, cost a hefty sum of £500.

DEATH Lord Byron's life ended tragically on April 19, 1824, in Missolonghi, Greece. Weakened by rheumatic fever, possibly contracted from the damp marshes, he passed away. His final words remain a subject of debate, with some accounts mentioning a peaceful farewell, "Now I shall go to sleep. Goodnight," while others claim they hinted at deeper turmoil, "My daughter! My sister!"

News of his death plunged Greece into mourning, with the nation observing a solemn 21-day period of grief.  However, Byron's final resting place became a point of contention.  He was denied burial in the prestigious Poet's Corner of Westminster Abbey, a decision met with public outcry.  Ultimately, he was laid to rest in the Parish Church of Hucknall Torkard, near his family home.

A poignant detail emerged during the funeral procession.  Lady Caroline Lamb, once romantically linked to Byron, accidentally encountered the cortege. This unexpected event is said to have further destabilized her mental health.

While his body found peace in England, a part of Byron remained in Greece.  His heart was buried beneath a tree in Missolonghi, a testament to the deep connection he felt with the nation he sought to liberate.

Years later, a memorial was finally placed in Westminster Abbey, a belated recognition of his immense literary contribution.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Lord Byron's influence transcended his lifetime.  Over 300 biographies delve into his complex life, while his passionate works inspired musical compositions by  Schumann, Tchaikovsky, and operatic masterpieces by Verdi.

His captivating story continues to be reimagined on screen, with portrayals in films and plays, including The Bad Lord Byron (1948), Lady Caroline Lamb (1972), Rowing with the Wind (1987), and Gothic (1986).

ACHIEVEMENTS Byron is celebrated as a symbol of Romanticism and liberalism, with his poetry influencing the transition from the Age of Reason to the Age of Passion. 

He is considered Britain's first celebrity, famous for being famous.

Sources The Frank Muir Book, The Book of Lists, Letter to John Murray 14/3/1817 The Frank Muir Book,  Independent Magazine, Oxford Book of English Literature,  Faber Book of Anecdotes