Oliver Goldsmith Quotes
Oliver Goldsmith was an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet who lived from 1728 to 1774. He is best known for his novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” and his play “She Stoops to Conquer.” Goldsmith was a prolific writer, producing works in various genres including essays, poetry,…Read More
Oliver Goldsmith was an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet who lived from 1728 to 1774. He is best known for his novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” and his play “She Stoops to Conquer.” Goldsmith was a prolific writer, producing works in various genres including essays, poetry, and plays. He was also a prominent figure in the literary circles of London, where he befriended notable writers such as Samuel Johnson and Edmund Burke. Goldsmith’s writing is characterized by its wit, humor, and social commentary, often satirizing the societal norms and customs of his time. His works continue to be celebrated for their enduring charm and insight into human nature.Read Less
Oliver Goldsmith was an Irish novelist, playwright, and poet who lived from 1728 to 1774. He is best known for his novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” and his play “She Stoops to Conquer.” Goldsmith was a prolific writer, producing works in various genres including essays, poetry, and plays. He was also a prominent figure in the literary circles of London, where he befriended notable writers such as Samuel Johnson and Edmund Burke. Goldsmith’s writing is characterized by its wit, humor, and social commentary, often satirizing the societal norms and customs of his time. His works continue to be celebrated for their enduring charm and insight into human nature.
102 Inspiring Oliver Goldsmith Quotes
Oliver Goldsmith Career Highlights
- Goldsmith’s first major success came with the publication of his novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” in 1766. The novel was an instant hit and established Goldsmith as a prominent writer.
- In 1773, Goldsmith’s play “She Stoops to Conquer” was performed at Covent Garden Theatre in London. The play was a huge success and is still considered one of the greatest comedies in English literature.
- Goldsmith was also a prolific poet and his poem “The Deserted Village” (1770) is considered one of the greatest works of the 18th century. It is a poignant commentary on the effects of rural depopulation and the changing social and economic landscape of England.
- Goldsmith’s career was not limited to writing. He also worked as a doctor, but his lack of success in this field led him to focus solely on his writing.
- In addition to his literary works, Goldsmith also wrote essays and articles for various publications, including “The Citizen of the World” (1762) and “The Bee” (1759).
Key Contributions by Oliver Goldsmith
- Goldsmith’s works were known for their wit, humor, and social commentary. He often used satire to criticize the societal norms and values of his time.
- He was a master of the sentimental novel, a genre that focused on the emotions and moral values of the characters. “The Vicar of Wakefield” is considered one of the finest examples of this genre.
- Goldsmith’s plays were known for their clever dialogue and comedic situations. “She Stoops to Conquer” is a prime example of his skill in creating humorous and relatable characters.
- He was also a pioneer in the use of the novel as a form of social commentary. His works often shed light on the issues of poverty, class, and morality in 18th century England.
What Sets Oliver Goldsmith Apart
- Goldsmith’s writing style was unique and often described as charming and elegant. He had a way of capturing the essence of human nature and portraying it in a relatable and humorous manner.
- He was a versatile writer, excelling in various genres such as novels, plays, poetry, and essays. This versatility allowed him to reach a wider audience and establish himself as a prominent figure in English literature.
- Goldsmith’s works were not only entertaining but also had a deeper meaning and message. He used his writing to comment on the social and political issues of his time, making him a significant figure in the literary and cultural landscape of 18th century England.
Takeaways
- Oliver Goldsmith’s career was marked by numerous successes, including his popular novel “The Vicar of Wakefield” and his acclaimed play “She Stoops to Conquer.”
- He was a versatile writer who excelled in various genres and used his writing to comment on the societal issues of his time.
- Goldsmith’s unique writing style and ability to capture the essence of human nature set him apart from his contemporaries and established him as a prominent figure in English literature.
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