William Fowler

Sebastiaan Johan Verweij (University of Bristol)
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William Fowler, poet, courtier, spy, and Secretary to James VI’s queen, Anne of Denmark, was an important member of what is usually known as the “Castalian band”. Whereas the notion of this band and their social organisation has recently been challenged (see below), it is usually understood to refer to a number of poets and musicians connected to the Scottish court of James VI, active primarily between 1581 and 1585. Other notable members include Alexander Montgomerie, John Stewart of Baldynneis, Alexander Hume, the Hudson brothers, and indeed James VI himself. Even though today Fowler’s status is that of a relatively minor author, his influence on this small group of coterie poets and musicians is significant. He is best known for his many sonnets, and his pioneering translations…

1863 words

Citation: Verweij, Sebastiaan Johan. "William Fowler". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 16 August 2005 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/speople.php?rec=true&UID=5960, accessed 13 December 2024.]

5960 William Fowler 1 Historical context notes are intended to give basic and preliminary information on a topic. In some cases they will be expanded into longer entries as the Literary Encyclopedia evolves.

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