Lancelot Addison, English clergyman and educator (b. 1632)

The Reverend Lancelot Addison (1632 – 20 April 1703) was a distinguished figure in 17th-century England, known both as a perceptive writer and a prominent clergyman within the Church of England. His life journey took him from the quiet Westmorland countryside to the bustling North African port of Tangier, and ultimately to high office within the ecclesiastical hierarchy, leaving a notable literary and family legacy.

Early Life, Education, and Foundations

Born in 1632 in the picturesque village of Crosby Ravensworth, nestled in the historic county of Westmorland (now part of Cumbria), Lancelot Addison's early life laid the groundwork for his intellectual and spiritual pursuits. He received his formal education at The Queen's College, Oxford, a venerable institution renowned for fostering academic excellence. It was here that he honed his scholarly abilities and deepened his understanding of theology, preparing him for a multifaceted career that would blend pastoral duties with insightful observation and literary expression.

Years in Tangier and His First Major Work

A pivotal period in Addison's life was his seven-year tenure as chaplain in Tangier. At the time, Tangier was an English possession, having been part of Catherine of Braganza's dowry upon her marriage to King Charles II. This strategically important port city on the North African coast offered a unique vantage point for an English observer. Living amidst a diverse population, Addison gained firsthand experience of the complex socio-political landscape of the region, which was then experiencing significant upheaval. Upon his return to England, these experiences culminated in his influential work, "West Barbary, or a Short Narrative of the Revolutions of the Kingdoms of Fez and Morocco", published in 1671. This book provided contemporary English readers with a rare and detailed account of the political and social dynamics of the Barbary Coast, offering valuable insights into a part of the world largely unfamiliar to many.

Ascent Through the Church of England

Addison's dedicated service and scholarly contributions did not go unnoticed. In 1670, he received the prestigious appointment of royal chaplain, or Chaplain in Ordinary to the King, a role that placed him in direct service to the monarch and underscored his growing stature within the Church. This marked the beginning of a rapid ascent through the ecclesiastical ranks. Shortly thereafter, he became Rector of Milston, Wiltshire, a position he held from 1670 to 1681, and also a Prebendary in the grand Cathedral of Salisbury. However, his time at Milston was not without incident, as the Milston Rectory tragically burnt down in 1681. Despite this setback, his career continued its upward trajectory: in 1683, he was appointed Dean of Lichfield, a significant leadership role within one of England's ancient cathedrals, and just a year later, in 1684, he assumed the responsibility of Archdeacon of Coventry. These successive appointments highlight his respected standing and administrative capabilities within the Church of England.

Further Literary Contributions and Scholarly Examination

Beyond his account of Tangier, Lancelot Addison continued to contribute to scholarly discourse. His work, "The Present State of the Jews" (1675), stands as another testament to his keen observational skills and intellectual curiosity. This book offered a detailed study of the Jewish population residing along the Barbary Coast during the 17th century, meticulously documenting their customs, traditions, and religious practices. It provided a valuable contemporary perspective on Jewish life in that region, an area of considerable interest during the era. However, modern scholars, in their thorough examination of Addison's sources, have noted that certain sections of his work appear to draw extensively from, or even directly repeat, material found in the English translation of Johannes Buxtorf's seminal work, "Synagoga Judaica: The Jewish Synagogue, or an Historical Narration of the State of the Jewes" (London, 1657). This observation, while not diminishing the historical value of Addison's independent observations, places his work within a broader intellectual tradition of studying Jewish communities.

Family Legacy and Final Resting Place

Lancelot Addison passed away on April 20, 1703, leaving behind a remarkable family legacy. He was the father of three sons and two daughters, many of whom went on to achieve distinction in their own rights. His eldest son, Joseph Addison (1672–1719), became one of England's most celebrated essayists and a prominent figure of the Augustan age, co-founding The Spectator with Richard Steele. Another son, Gulston Addison, served with distinction as Governor of Madras, contributing to the administration of the British East India Company. His youngest son, also named Lancelot Addison (1680–1710), followed in his father's academic footsteps as a scholar. His daughters were Dorothy Addison (1674–1750) and Anne Addison (1676-Unknown). Reverend Lancelot Addison himself found his final resting place within the venerable walls of Lichfield Cathedral in Staffordshire, a fitting tribute to a life dedicated to the church and the pursuit of knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions about Reverend Lancelot Addison

Who was Reverend Lancelot Addison?

Reverend Lancelot Addison (1632–1703) was an English clergyman of the Church of England and a notable writer in the 17th century. He is recognized for his accounts of North Africa and his ecclesiastical career, which saw him rise to positions such as Dean of Lichfield.

What was his connection to Tangier?

Lancelot Addison served as a chaplain in Tangier for seven years, during the period when it was an English possession. His experiences there formed the basis of his significant work, "West Barbary, or a Short Narrative of the Revolutions of the Kingdoms of Fez and Morocco" (1671).

What were his main literary works?

His two most prominent works are "West Barbary, or a Short Narrative of the Revolutions of the Kingdoms of Fez and Morocco" (1671), an account of his time in North Africa, and "The Present State of the Jews" (1675), a detailed study of Jewish communities on the Barbary Coast.

Who was Joseph Addison in relation to Lancelot?

Joseph Addison (1672–1719) was Reverend Lancelot Addison's eldest son. Joseph went on to become one of England's most celebrated essayists and a highly influential figure in English literature and politics during the Augustan age.

Where is Lancelot Addison buried?

Reverend Lancelot Addison is buried in Lichfield Cathedral, located in Staffordshire, England, a cathedral where he served as Dean.

What was his highest position in the Church of England?

His highest position in the Church of England was Dean of Lichfield, an appointment he received in 1683. He also served as Archdeacon of Coventry from 1684.