Stopford Augustus Brooke (1832–1916) was an influential Irish clergyman, preacher, and literary critic, known for his works on English literature and theology, making significant contributions to both religious discourse and literary criticism.
Born in Letterkenny, County Donegal, Ireland, Brooke was educated at Trinity College, Dublin, where he graduated in 1856. Initially ordained as an Anglican priest, Brooke served as a chaplain to Queen Victoria and held various church positions before eventually leaving the Church of England in 1880 due to his evolving theological views.
Brooke is renowned for his contributions to literature and religious thought. One of his most significant works is The Life and Letters of Frederick W. Robertson (1865,) a biography of the prominent English divine. Another notable publication is Theology in the English Poets (1874,) where Brooke examines the theological implications found in the works of major English poets. His work Primer of English Literature (1876) is a comprehensive introduction to the history of English literature and was widely used in educational institutions.
In 1888, Brooke published The History of Early English Literature, a detailed study of English literary works from the Anglo-Saxon period to the end of the 12th century. He also authored Ten More Plays of Shakespeare (1913,) showcasing his deep appreciation and understanding of Shakespearean drama.
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If a thousand old beliefs were ruined in our march to truth we must still march on.
—Stopford Brooke
Topics: Truth
We want an aim that can never grow vile, and which cannot disappoint our hope. There is but one such on earth, and it is that of being like God. He who strives after union with perfect love must grow out of selfishness, and his success is secured in the omnipotent holiness of God.
—Stopford Brooke
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