Cumberland, Richard, 1732-1811

Richard Cumberland was an author, best known as a dramatist and for his memoirs. Born at Trinity College, his father was a clergyman and his mother was the daughter of scholar Richard Bentley, then master of Trinity. He was educated at Westminster School and Trinity College at Oxford, and devoted himself to a life of literature. While serving a number of government posts, he continued his studies, and wrote and translated numerous works. He wrote prose and poetry, but was most successful as a playwright, writing a large number of plays, several of which were successful. Cumberland's work is generally considered overly sentimental and melodramatic, but he helped popularize such innovations as the problem play, the musical drama, and melodrama.

From the description of Richard Cumberland letter to Dear Pinckney, 1773 June 3. (Pennsylvania State University Libraries). WorldCat record id: 106478866

Dramatist and essayist.

From the description of Richard Cumberland letter and prayer, 1782-1801. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 79450070

Richard Cumberland, English playwright and novelist.

From the guide to the Richard Cumberland manuscript material : 1 item, ca. 1800, (The New York Public Library. Carl H. Pforzheimer Collection of Shelley and His Circle.)

English dramatist.

From the description of Autograph letter signed : [London]. to David Garrick, [ca. 1775]. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 270522357

From the description of Autograph letter signed : "Warren's Hotel" [London], to "My very dear Grandson", [no year] Aug. 18. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 270530756

From the description of Autograph letter signed : [Tunbridge Wells], to Sir James Bland Burges, [c.1808?] Feb. 24. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 270527823

From the description of Autograph letter signed : [London?], to Mrs. Rose, [ca. 1795?]. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 270522379

Richard Cumberland, Engliah playwright and novelist.

From the description of Richard Cumberland manuscript material : 1 item, ca. 1800 (New York Public Library). WorldCat record id: 154707340