When and where was Michael Drayton born?
Michael Drayton arrived in the world at Hartshill, near Nuneaton, Warwickshire, England, during early 1563. Very little documentation exists regarding his childhood years or family background.
Questions about Michael Drayton
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What major topographical work did Michael Drayton write between 1598 and 1622?
The first part of Poly-Olbion appeared in 1613 with eighteen books produced before twelve additional books completed the survey of England during that year. Learned scholar John Selden supplied notes for this massive undertaking which remained famous today despite its slow start.
How many plays did Michael Drayton contribute to Philip Henslowe's theatrical syndicate from 1597 to 1602?
Henslowe's Diary links his name with twenty-three plays created during that period but only one play survived from those five years as Part 1 of Sir John Oldcastle. This text shows no clear signs of Drayton's distinctive hand or style traits because his rich vocabulary of plant names and star names is wholly absent from the script.
Why was Michael Drayton bitter after James I accession in 1603?
James I accession brought ridicule for a compliment poem addressed in 1603 and services were rejected by the new king leading to deep bitterness within Drayton. The Owl appeared in 1604 expressing this anger through satirical composition even though he possessed no real talent for writing satire.
When and where did Michael Drayton die and who buried him?
Michael Drayton died in London on the 23rd of December 1631 and was buried in Poets' Corner at Westminster Abbey. A monument placed over him came from the Countess of Dorset with memorial lines attributed to Ben Jonson topped the structure sculpted by Edward Marshall.