John Keble

John Keble John Keble was an English Church of England priest, poet, and theologian. He was a leading figure in the Oxford Movement, a 19th-century Anglican theological movement that sought to restore certain Catholic traditions to the Church of England. Keble's contributions to the movement were significant, and his literary works continue to be celebrated for their beauty and spiritual insight. He was a prominent figure in the University of Oxford, where he studied and later taught.

Early life and education

John Keble was born on April 25, 1792, in Eastleach Martin, Gloucestershire, England, to a family of Church of England clergy. His father, John Keble, was a vicar, and his mother, Susanna, was from a family of clergy as well. Keble was educated at Homefield School in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, and later at Oxford University, where he studied at Christ Church, Oxford. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1813 and was elected a scholar of Christ Church, Oxford.

Career and the Oxford Movement

Keble was ordained as a deacon in 1816 and as a priest in 1817. He became a curate in Wiltshire and later a vicar in Beckampton, Wiltshire. In 1827, Keble was appointed as a preacher at Oxford University, where he became a prominent figure in the Oxford Movement, alongside John Henry Newman and Edward Bouverie Pusey. The movement sought to restore certain Catholic traditions to the Church of England, such as apostolic succession and sacramentalism. Keble's sermons and writings played a significant role in shaping the movement's theology and direction.

Literary works and influence

Keble was a prolific writer and poet, and his works include "The Christian Year" (1827), a collection of poems for each Sunday and Holy Day of the year. The book was widely popular and went through many editions. He also wrote "Lectures on the Evidences of Christianity" (1837), a series of lectures on the historical Jesus and the New Testament. Keble's literary style was characterized by its beauty, simplicity, and spiritual insight. His works influenced many writers and thinkers, including C.S. Lewis, who often cited Keble's poetry and sermons.

Later life and death

In 1835, Keble was appointed as the Regius Professor of English Language and Literature at Oxford University, a position he held until his death. He was also a Canon of Christ Church, Oxford from 1836. Keble died on March 6, 1866, at the age of 73, in Oxford, England. He was buried in Holverstone Cemetery, Oxfordshire.

Legacy and commemoration

John Keble's legacy is complex and multifaceted. He is remembered as a leading figure in the Oxford Movement, which had a significant impact on the Church of England and the Anglican Communion. His literary works continue to be celebrated for their beauty and spiritual insight. Keble College, Oxford was founded in 1870 in his memory, and many churches and schools are named after him. Keble's contributions to the Oxford Movement and his literary works have made him a significant figure in Anglican history and culture. Category:Church of England clergy Category:Oxford Movement Category:English poets Category:Theologians