Robert Burton

About

An Oxford University scholar, he is best known for his classic 1621 work, The Anatomy of Melancholy. He was also a mathematician and an amateur astrologer.

Before Fame

He attended Brasenose College and Christ Church, Oxford. He was named vicar of St. Thomas' Church in 1616 and rector of Segrave, Leicester, in 1630.

Trivia

His writings had an immense impact on poet and essayist Samuel Johnson.

Family Life

He was born in Lindley, Leicestershire, England. His brother was the famed antiquarian, William Burton.

Associated With

He was mentioned in a book by Anthony Burgess.