Philip Herbert, 4th Earl of Pembroke (b. 1584)

Philip Herbert, the 4th Earl of Pembroke and 1st Earl of Montgomery (10 October 1584 – 23 January 1650), was a highly influential English courtier, nobleman, and politician whose active career spanned the reigns of King James I and King Charles I. His life and significant contributions provide a fascinating glimpse into the political and cultural landscape of early 17th-century England, marked by his complex loyalties and enduring legacy in the literary world.

As a prominent figure at court, Philip Herbert rapidly ascended through the ranks, enjoying considerable favour under King James I, who elevated him to the earldom of Montgomery in 1605. He continued to hold influential positions, including Lord Chamberlain of the Household, during the reign of King Charles I. However, as the political climate grew increasingly turbulent and led to the English Civil War, Philip Herbert's allegiance became a notable point of historical interest. Despite his initial close ties to the monarchy and his Royalist background, he ultimately sided with the Parliamentarian cause, a decision that underscores the profound societal and political schisms within the English aristocracy of the period and his pragmatic approach to navigating such tumultuous times.

Beyond his political career, Philip Herbert is perhaps most widely recognized for his profound and lasting connection to the literary legacy of William Shakespeare. He and his elder brother, William Herbert, the 3rd Earl of Pembroke, were famously immortalized as the "incomparable pair of brethren" in the dedication of the First Folio of Shakespeare's collected plays, published in 1623. This monumental literary undertaking, compiled by Shakespeare's fellow actors and colleagues, John Heminge and Henry Condell, seven years after the playwright's death, was absolutely critical for the preservation of many of Shakespeare's plays, including timeless classics like 'Macbeth', 'Julius Caesar', and 'Twelfth Night', which might otherwise have been lost to history without this definitive compilation.

The dedication to the Herbert brothers was far more than a mere courtesy; it was a significant acknowledgment of their substantial patronage of the arts and their direct influence over theatrical matters. William Herbert, serving as Lord Chamberlain from 1615, and subsequently Philip, who succeeded him in this crucial role, held positions that made them principal patrons and influential protectors of the King's Men, Shakespeare's acting company. Their high standing and continuous support provided essential financial and institutional backing, which was indispensable for the ambitious and costly publication of such a comprehensive and vital literary collection. This pivotal act cemented their enduring place as central figures in the preservation and promotion of what is widely considered the greatest literary legacy in the English language.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philip Herbert

Who was Philip Herbert and what were his key roles?

Philip Herbert was the 4th Earl of Pembroke and 1st Earl of Montgomery, an influential English courtier, nobleman, and politician. He served under both King James I and King Charles I, holding significant positions such as Lord Chamberlain of the Household, and played a notable, albeit complex, role during the English Civil War.

What is the significance of the First Folio of Shakespeare's works?

The First Folio, published in 1623, is the first collected edition of William Shakespeare's plays. Compiled by his colleagues John Heminge and Henry Condell, it is arguably the most important book in English literature as it preserved 36 of Shakespeare's plays, many of which had not been previously printed or were only available in less complete or reliable editions. Without it, a substantial portion of Shakespeare's dramatic output would likely have been lost.

Why were Philip and William Herbert chosen for the First Folio dedication?

Philip Herbert and his elder brother William were chosen for the First Folio's dedication because they were highly influential patrons of the arts and drama, directly supporting the King's Men, Shakespeare's acting company. As successive Lord Chamberlains, they held positions that allowed them to provide crucial financial and institutional backing, making the ambitious publication of the collected plays possible. The dedication recognized their pivotal role in fostering and preserving the theatrical works of the era.

Did Philip Herbert's political allegiance change during the English Civil War?

Yes, Philip Herbert's political allegiance did change during the English Civil War. Although he was initially a favourite of James I and a prominent figure in Charles I's court, he ultimately sided with the Parliamentarian cause against the King. This shift highlights the deep political divisions and pragmatic decisions made by members of the English nobility during this tumultuous period.