Thomas Carlyle Biography, Life, Interesting Facts

Thomas Carlyle came to prominence as a renowned essayist, satirical writer, teacher, and historian. Not to mention he showed a keen interest in mathematics, all thanks to his father’s guidance. Instead of staggering into the world of drunkenness, Thomas wobbled with his satirical and historical views. His writings, especially biographies illustrated his orthodox doctrines.

It was during the 19th-century that some of his major works were edited and published by Murray Baumgartner. New editions were later released with the help of the University of California Press. I wonder how he managed to venture into several prospects before he called it quit the world. 

Carlyle’s Personality

Thomas Carlyle's most significant challenge in life was to live by his means. At his free time, Thomas loved to research, analyze and complete his findings without asking for a helping hand. Although he was entirely different from his colleagues, Thomas inspired each one of them. He was defined as a hardworking, resilient and ambitious individual.

Thomas Carlyle was the luckiest person who knew how to control his emotions while his creativity remained intact. This paved the way for his self-confidence and authoritative nature. He was regarded as a daring man of honor not only in his native land but internationally. His thirst for gentility allowed him to steer for nothing else than a desire for good future and hope. 

Early and Childhood Life

On 4th, December 1795 Thomas Carlyle was first seen in the world in Galloway, Scotland, United Kingdom. He first enrolled at Annan Academy, but he later left after three years. At his tender age, he got interested in Reformed tradition. He was then taken to the University of Edinburgh, and after his studies, he served as a mathematics tutor. He first started to teach in Annan, and later on, he went in Kirkcaldy.

It was in 1819 that Thomas Carlyle went back to the University of Edinburgh where he worked as a clergy. However, he opted to change his career in 1821 where he concentrated on writing and nothing else. As an introduction to the world of journalism, he wrote teaching called Cruthers and Jonson. Unfortunately, the book didn’t receive positive reviews. He tried to venture into other branches of writing such as essays where he wrote a thesis titled Signs of the Times and Characteristics.

Thomas Carlyle stayed at the University of Edinburgh until the end of 1821. It was there that he wrote several works of faith including Sartor Resartus. He was also diagnosed with a stomach infection that continued to haunt him for the rest of his life. As a result, a noble and subtle man turned into a quarrelsome and sensitive being.

Instead of showing his real emotions, Thomas wrote books that made him befriend an irritating life. He started off by reading and writing German literary texts, which in turn influenced his writing skill.

In 1825 Thomas Carlyle teamed up with Fraser’s Magazine in German where he wrote several essays including Life of Schiller. After several years of trials and fails, Thomas went to London where he got a pseudonym name titled Sage of Chelsea. He also took the time to participate in literary groups. After a short experience, he wrote a memoir titled The French Revolution. This is what welcomed him to the world of fame.

Later Life

Thomas Carlyle spent his later life in the field of writing where he concentrated more on short essays including Occasional Discourse on the Negro Questions. The piece explained in detail how slavery should be abolished and that it wasn’t fit for any being. He followed it up with another essay called Reminiscences of Jane Welsh Carlyle followed by The Early Kings of Norway.

Personal Life and Legacy

Before marrying a Welsh native named Jane in 1826, Thomas Carlyle had several relations with different women. While he was still in his union with Jane, he continued to have an eye for Kitty Kirkpatrick. Jane and Thomas's love was vividly seen and read in their 10,000 love letters that they used to write for one another. But they later parted ways due to disagreements and unfaithfulness. It was on February 5th, 1881 that Thomas breathed his last in London. He was interred in Westminster Abbey.