John Hookham Frere (1769–1846) was an English diplomat, poet, and satirist known for his literary contributions and political influence.
Born in London, he attended Eton College, forming a lifelong friendship with George Canning. He later studied at Caius College-Cambridge, earning a B.A. (1792) and M.A. (1795.) Frere entered public service at the Foreign Office and served as a Member of Parliament for West Looe (1796–1802.) His diplomatic career included postings in Portugal and Spain, though his tenure in Spain ended controversially in 1808 when he was recalled after advising British forces against retreat during the Napoleonic Wars.
Beyond diplomacy, Frere was a talented writer and satirist. He contributed to The Anti-Jacobin (1797–98,) a political journal opposing revolutionary ideas, collaborating with Canning on satirical works like The Needy Knife-Grinder and The Rovers. He reintroduced the Italian ottava rima in English verse, influencing Lord Byron’s Don Juan.
His major literary works include The Monks and the Giants (1817–,) a mock-heroic Arthurian epic, and translations of Aristophanes‘ plays, showcasing his mastery of classical literature.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by John Hookham Frere
And don’t confound the language of the nation With long-tailed words in osity and ation.
—John Hookham Frere
Topics: Language
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