Fitzgerald, Edward, 1809-1883

Edward FitzGerald was an English author and translator, best known for his popular translation of The Rubáiyát. Born Edward Marlborough Purcell into one of the wealthiest families in England, the family name was changed when his mother inherited her family fortune. He was educated at Oxford University, after which he travelled constantly for a time and wrote poetry, as well as translating verse from several languages. Although talented, he lacked the motivation to devote himself to writing; he is best remembered for translating from the Persian a selection of short poems by Omar Khayyam, known as The Rubáiyát. Although eccentric in his personal life and separated from the literary scene, FitzGerald was an important friend and correspondent with several key figures of the era.

From the description of Edward FitzGerald letter to My dear sir, circa 1880? (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 123906035

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