Sir Thomas Browne Christian Morals 1682

The popular author and doctor used the phrase Beggars Bush in Christian Morals (written before 1682, though not published until 1716). He uses the phrase in the standard literary sense, but in an unusual classical context. His usage establishes the the usage of the phrase outside the vernacular. The most likely origin is through the play by Fletcher & Massinger; there is evidence that his son saw it. There is  no direct evidence that Browne saw or read it and there are other sources from which he may have acquired the phrase. His and his son’s library included the works of Ben Jonson. Read the rest of this entry »

Posted: April 7th, 2011 | Filed under: Writers | Tags: Ben Jonson, Christopher Marlowe, Literary, Sir Thomas Browne, The Play | 1 Comment »