Deaths on March 18

Laurence Sterne, Irish novelist and clergyman (b. 1713)

Laurence Sterne (24 November 1713 – 18 March 1768) stands as a towering figure in 18th-century Anglo-Irish literature, celebrated for his innovative and often whimsical novels. As an Anglican cleric, he surprisingly found his true calling and enduring fame not through sermons alone, but through groundbreaking works like The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman and the travelogue A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy. His life was a blend of clerical duties, literary pursuits, and a touch of local political engagement, all of which often found their way, directly or indirectly, into his unique prose.

Early Life and Education: A Nomadic Beginning

Born into a military family, Sterne's early years were characterized by constant relocation, primarily across Ireland with brief stints in England, following his father's various postings. This transient childhood, devoid of a stable home, undoubtedly shaped his observant eye and perhaps his later unconventional narrative styles. A pivotal moment came when his uncle, recognizing his potential, stepped in to finance his education at Hipperholme Grammar School in the West Riding of Yorkshire. This opportunity arose as his father was dispatched to Jamaica, where he tragically succumbed to malaria years later. His intellectual journey continued at Jesus College, Cambridge, where he matriculated on a sizarship – a scholarship arrangement for students of limited means who often performed certain duties in return for their education. Here, Sterne pursued his studies diligently, ultimately earning both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree, laying the foundation for his future intellectual and literary endeavors.

Clerical Career and Literary Forays

Following his academic achievements, Sterne settled into the life of an Anglican cleric. In 1741, while serving as the Vicar of Sutton-on-the-Forest in Yorkshire, he married Elizabeth Lumley. His early clerical years were not without controversy; his ecclesiastical satire, A Political Romance, proved so provocative that it infuriated the church hierarchy and was publicly burned, a testament to his sharp wit and willingness to challenge the establishment. This incident, rather than stifling his talent, seemingly ignited his true potential for writing. It was in this period that he began to channel his unique perspective into what would become his most celebrated work.

The Birth of a Literary Icon: Tristram Shandy

With a newfound confidence in his literary abilities, Sterne began publishing early volumes of his magnum opus, The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman. This novel was unlike anything that had come before it; an experimental, digressive, and humorous narrative that played with form, chronology, and reader expectations. It quickly cemented his reputation as an innovative Anglo-Irish novelist, captivating audiences with its philosophical musings, bawdy humor, and a narrative voice that felt intimately connected to the reader. The immediate success of Tristram Shandy propelled Laurence Sterne into the literary spotlight, securing his place in 18th-century literature as a pioneer of the modern novel.

Later Years, Travels, and Final Works

Despite his literary success, Sterne's health had always been a concern. Plagued by persistent tuberculosis, he sought relief in warmer climates, embarking on a journey to France. These travels, often undertaken with a keen eye for human nature and cultural quirks, became the inspiration for his poignant travelogue, A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy. This work, a more concise and reflective narrative than Tristram Shandy, explored themes of empathy, sensibility, and the human condition, further showcasing his versatility as an author. It was published just weeks before his death, serving as a touching swansong to his illustrious career. In his final years, Sterne also penned the posthumously published Journal to Eliza, a series of intimate letters addressed to Eliza Draper, a married woman for whom he harbored deep romantic feelings, offering a rare glimpse into his emotional world.

Death, Burial, and a Curious Legacy

Laurence Sterne passed away in 1768 and was initially interred in the yard of St George's, Hanover Square. However, his story took a peculiar turn posthumously. Rumors circulated that his body was stolen from its grave shortly after burial and sold to anatomists at Cambridge University. According to the tale, the body was recognized and subsequently reinterred, adding a macabre twist to his already unconventional life. Centuries later, in 1969, what was believed to be his ostensible skull was discovered in the churchyard and reverently transferred to Coxwold by the Laurence Sterne Trust, ensuring that even in death, the Anglo-Irish novelist continued to intrigue and captivate. His profound influence on the novel, particularly his playful subversion of traditional narrative, continues to resonate, making him a perennial subject of study in 18th-century literature.

Frequently Asked Questions about Laurence Sterne

Who was Laurence Sterne?

Laurence Sterne was a celebrated Anglo-Irish novelist and Anglican cleric from the 18th century, best known for his highly innovative and influential novels, The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman and A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy.

When did Laurence Sterne live?

He was born on 24 November 1713 and passed away on 18 March 1768.

What are Laurence Sterne's most famous works?

His two masterpieces are The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman, an experimental and digressive novel, and A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy, a reflective travelogue.

What was Laurence Sterne's background?

He grew up in a military family that traveled extensively. He later attended Jesus College, Cambridge, and became an Anglican cleric, serving as a Vicar.

Why is Laurence Sterne considered important in literature?

Sterne is highly regarded for his groundbreaking narrative techniques, including his use of digressions, unconventional structure, and direct address to the reader, which profoundly influenced the development of the novel and experimental fiction.