James Hogg
James Hogg
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Full Name and Common Aliases
James Hogg was a Scottish writer and poet, commonly known as the "Ettrick Shepherd" due to his rural upbringing in the Ettrick Valley of Scotland. His full name is James Harvey Hogg.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on December 9, 1770, in Ettrick, Roxburghshire, Scotland, James Hogg passed away on November 21, 1835, at the age of 64.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Hogg was a Scottish national, and his profession primarily revolved around writing. He is best recognized as an author of novels, poetry, essays, and autobiographical works.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in rural Scotland, James Hogg's early life had a profound impact on his writing style and themes. His family struggled financially, and the harsh realities of country life often influenced his work. Self-educated, he spent much time reading and writing as a young man. His experiences with poverty, nature, and the people around him significantly shaped his literary perspective.
Major Accomplishments
Hogg's significant contributions to literature can be seen in several areas:
Novels: He wrote several novels that showcased his understanding of rural life and human nature. Notably, _The Three Perils of Man_ explores themes of poverty, crime, and war.
Poetry: His poetry often reflected the beauty of Scottish landscapes and the struggles faced by its people. The collection _The Shepherd's Calendar_ is a testament to his skill in capturing the essence of rural life through verse.
Essays and Autobiography: Hogg was also an accomplished essayist and autobiographical writer, offering insights into his personal life, experiences, and observations on literature.Notable Works or Actions
Some notable works by James Hogg include:
_The Three Perils of Man_ (1822): A novel that explores the struggles faced by rural communities.
_The Shepherd's Calendar_ (1824): A collection of poetry celebrating Scotland's natural beauty and highlighting the difficulties encountered by its people.Impact and Legacy
James Hogg's impact on literature extends beyond his own works. His writing often reflected the harsh realities of life in rural Scotland, giving voice to those who might otherwise remain unheard. He played a significant role in shaping the Scottish literary tradition, which continues to influence writers today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
James Hogg's writings are remembered for their:
Authentic representation: His work offers an honest portrayal of rural life and the struggles faced by its people.
Literary merit: His novels, poetry, and essays demonstrate exceptional storytelling skills and a deep understanding of human nature.
Historical significance: Hogg's writing provides valuable insights into Scotland's history, culture, and social conditions during his time.
Through his work, James Hogg has left an indelible mark on literature. His commitment to capturing the essence of rural life, as well as his exploration of universal themes, continues to resonate with readers today.
Quotes by James Hogg
Religion is a sublime and glorious thing, the bond of society on earth, and the connector of humanity with the Divine nature; but there is nothing so dangerous to man as the wresting of its principles, or forcing them beyond their due bounds: this is above all others the readiest way to destruction.
It strikes me, my dear, that religious devotion would be somewhat out of place tonight.
I never go but where I have some great purpose to serve,” returned he, “either in the advancement of my own power and dominion or in thwarting my enemies.
The attendance of that brother was now become like the attendance of a demon on some devoted being that had sold himself to destruction.
Hold, Sir, I say! None of your profanity before me. If I do evil to anyone on such occasions, it is because he will have it so; therefore, the evil is not of my doing.
Without the shepherd’s dog, the whole of the open mountainous land in Scotland would not be worth a sixpence.
Farewell, world, with all thy miseries; for comforts or enjoyments hast thou none! Farewell, woman, whom I have despised and shunned; and man, whom I have hated; whom, nevertheless, I desire to leave in charity! And thou, sun, bright emblem of a far brighter effulgence, I bid farewell to thee also! I do not now take my last look of thee, for to thy glorious orb shall a poor suicide’s last earthly look be raised.
As soon as I arrived, I went to the head inn, held by Mr. Creighton, a silly, despicable man, but privileged in having an excellent wife.
Auld John may dee a beggar in a hay barn, or at the back of a dike, but he sall aye be master o’ his ain thoughts an’ gie them vent or no, as he likes.
