Edward Gibbon: Biography & Contributions

The Life of Gibbon

Born in England in 1737
Eldest and only surviving child of seven.
Constantly sick as a child, considered a runt.
Neglected by his mother, raised by her sister (his aunt)
Raised as Protestant, then turned Catholic in his youth.
Traveled around Europe much in his twenties and thirties
Fell in love with Suzanne Churchad but never married, no kids.
Despite small stature, joins the militia in his twenties and attains the rank of captain.
Educated at Magdalin college
Settled in London, where he began his most famous book, The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire after his visit to Rome
Published the first volume in 1776
Sat in House of Commons between 1774-1783
Finished Decline and Fall in 1788
Died in 1794

A history of Rome from the death of Marcus Aurelius in 1453
Six volumes
Very controversial on the rise of Christianity, saying that it was one of the causes of the downfall of Rome.
Encouraged secularism, which caused many people to hate Gibbon
First historical work written with style instead of simply stating facts
Often considered the greatest historical work written in English

Secularism
The past provides wisdom, we can learn about the present and future through it
Reason above religion
Against tyranny, believed in moderation and tolerance
History should sound pleasing
Rationalist, not a fan of supernatural values
Believed in progress
“Let us read with method , and propose to ourselves an end to which our studies may point. The use of reading is to aid us in thinking”
Did not believe in baths

“Books are those faithful mirrors that reflect to our minds of sages and heroes”
“Corruption , the most infallible symptom of constitutional liberty”
“History is little more than the register of the crimes, follies and misfortunes of mankind”
“Of the various forms of government which have prevailed in the world, an hereditary monarchy seems to present the fairest scope for ridicule”