William Turner (1510?- 1568), an intellectual of humble origins and great mental energy, became Dean of Wells, a physician, a family man, an MP and a respected preacher who travelled, wrote and taught throughout his life. These complex activities were pursued through a period when Turner’s religious activities meant that he was twice obliged to flee abroad to avoid persecution, first in 1540 under Henry VIII, returning in 1547, and later in 1553 when Mary acceded to the throne, finally returning to England in 1558/9. He is known by historians for his connections with the Duke of Somerset (Lord Protector of King Edward VI) and his involvement in the politics of the English reformation. To theologians he is known for his translations (
of the old god and the new, 1534) and passionate…
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Citation: Barker, Jill. "William Turner". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 21 April 2008 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=2142, accessed 19 April 2024.]
