When did Robert Armin enter the Goldsmiths' Company?
Robert Armin entered the Goldsmiths' Company in 1581 as a young man from King's Lynn. His father John Armyn II worked as a tailor and maintained friendships with local goldsmith John Lonyson.
Questions about Robert Armin
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who was Richard Tarlton and what role did he play in Robert Armin's life?
Richard Tarlton was Queen's jester who allegedly approved of Robert Armin's wit during money collection duties. An anecdote preserved in Tarlton's Jests claims that Tarlton wrote back expressing a desire to take him as apprentice after seeing verses written by Armin on an inn wall.
What plays did Robert Armin perform in during the 1590s?
During the 1590s Robert Armin joined William Brydges' troupe known as the Chandos company where he performed parts in The History of the Two Maids of More-clacke. The play's 1609 quarto indicates he played Blue John, a clown type similar to Tarlton and Kempe.
When did Robert Armin's apprenticeship officially end?
Robert Armin's official apprenticeship ended in 1592 following the death of his master John Lonyson in 1582. This move shifted his life away from Norfolk tailoring into a circle of high responsibility and social standing before he began writing verses.
Which books did Robert Armin publish between 1600 and 1604?
Fool Upon Fool published in 1600 offered wit from natural fools some he knew personally while Quips upon Questions released that same year featured dialogues with his marotte named Signor Truncheon. A dedication to Brydges' widow appeared in 1604 hinting at personal ties with the family.