Bourdillon, Francis William, 1852-1921

Variant names

Dates:

Birth 1852-03-22

Death 1921-01-13

Nationality: Britons,

Language: English, French,

Biographical notes:

Bourdillon was an English author.

From the description of Letter, 1918. (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 82833595

Francis William Bourdillon (1852-1921) was an English poet and translator of Old French romances. His version of Aucassin et Nicolette was first published in 1887 and was a popular success.

From the description of Francis William Bourdillon collection, 1874-1921 (bulk 1880-1900). (Unknown). WorldCat record id: 702203608

Francis William Bourdillon was born in Buddington, Sussex and educated at Worcester College, Oxford. He served as tutor to the sons of Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein at Cumberland Lodge for several years. He later tutored for the University of Eastbourne, and settled in Eastbourne, Sussex.

Bourdillon published thirteen collections of poetry between 1874 and 1921, as well as single poems and narrative verses, many of them privately printed in limited editions. He is best-known today for the short poem "Light" ('The night has a thousand eyes.") Among his other publications were scholarly editions and translations of Old French literature; his translation of Aucassin et Nicolette appeared in 1887 and was a popular success.

In addition, Bourdillion was a member of the Alpine Club and campaigned for the preservation of the Alps against excessive development. He died in Eastbourne in 1921.

From the guide to the Francis William Bourdillon collection, 1874-1921, 1880-1900, (Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library)