Thomas Sprat
Thomas Sprat
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Thomas Sprat was a British historian, scholar, and Anglican priest who is commonly known as Thomas Sprat of Rye.
Birth and Death Dates
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Born: 1635 in Rye, Sussex, England
Died: November 29, 1713
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Thomas Sprat was a British historian and scholar. He served as an Anglican priest and a Fellow of the Royal Society.
Early Life and Background
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Thomas Sprat was born in Rye, Sussex, England in 1635 to a family of modest means. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he received a good education at a local grammar school. In 1654, Sprat entered Exeter College, Oxford, where he studied theology and developed an interest in the natural sciences.
During his time at Oxford, Sprat became acquainted with several prominent scholars, including Robert Boyle and Thomas Willis. This exposure to influential thinkers would later shape his own intellectual pursuits.
Major Accomplishments
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Sprat's most notable achievement was as a historian and scholar. He is best known for his work on the early church and the development of Anglican theology. His magnum opus, "The History of the Royal Society," published in 1667, provides a comprehensive account of the society's founding and its objectives.
Sprat also served as a Fellow of the Royal Society from 1674 until his death in 1713. During this time, he was involved in various scientific endeavors, including the study of electricity and magnetism.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some of Sprat's notable works include:
"The History of the Royal Society" (1667) - a comprehensive account of the society's founding and objectives
"A Short View of the English Church" (1675) - an exploration of Anglican theology and its relationship to the early church
"Observations upon the Memoirs of the Duke de Rohan Soubise" (1682) - a critical examination of historical recordsImpact and Legacy
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Thomas Sprat's contributions to the fields of history, science, and theology have had a lasting impact on scholarship. His work on the early church has influenced generations of historians, while his involvement in scientific endeavors helped establish the Royal Society as a hub for intellectual inquiry.
Sprat's legacy extends beyond his written works; he played an important role in shaping the cultural and intellectual landscape of 17th-century England. His association with prominent thinkers like Robert Boyle and Thomas Willis further solidified his reputation as a respected scholar and historian.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Thomas Sprat is widely quoted or remembered for several reasons:
His comprehensive account of the Royal Society's founding and objectives has become an essential resource for historians of science.
His work on Anglican theology has shaped our understanding of the early church and its relationship to modern Christian thought.
As a Fellow of the Royal Society, Sprat played a significant role in promoting scientific inquiry and advancing knowledge during his time.
In summary, Thomas Sprat was a multifaceted scholar who made lasting contributions to history, science, and theology. His work continues to influence contemporary scholarship, solidifying his place as one of the most important figures of 17th-century England.
Quotes by Thomas Sprat
It is always esteemed the greatest mischief a man can do to those whom he loves, to raise men’s expectations of them too high by undue and impertinent commendations.
Forever all goodness will be most charming; forever all wickedness will be most odious.
In all works of liberality something more is to be considered besides the occasion of the givers; and that is the occasion of the receivers.
It is always esteemed the greatest mischief a man can do to those whom he loves, to raise men's expectations of them too high by undue and impertinent commendations.
Are we not to pity and supply the poor, though they have no relation to us? No relation? That cannot be. The Gospel styles them all our brethren.
All false practices and affections of knowledge are more odious to God, and deserve to be so to men, than any want or defect of knowledge can be.
Invention is an Heroic thing, and plac'd above the reach of a low, and vulgar Genius. It requires an active, a bold, a nimble, a restless mind: a thousand difficulties must be contemn'd with which a mean heart would be broken: many attempts must be made to no purpose: much Treasure must sometimes be scatter'd without any return: much violence, and vigour of thoughts must attend it: some irregularities, and excesses must be granted it, that would hardly be pardon'd by the severe Rules of Prudence.
Passion is the great mover and spring of the soul. When men’s passions are strongest, they may have great and noble effects; but they are then also apt to fall into the greatest miscarriages.
Do not too many believe no zeal to be spiritual but what is censorious or vindictive? Whereas no zeal is spiritual that is not also charitable.