Alexander Pope

Alexander Pope (1688-1744) was an English poet, translator, and satirist of the Enlightenment era. Considered one of the most prominent English poets of the early 18th century, Pope was an exponent of Augustan literature. He is best known for his satirical and discursive poetry including 'The Rape of the Lock,' 'The Dunciad,' and 'An Essay on Criticism,' as well as his translations of Homer. Pope's verses have entered common parlance, with phrases like 'damning with faint praise' and 'to err is human; to forgive, divine' becoming well-known. Born in London, Pope's father was a successful linen merchant, and his mother was the daughter of William Turner, Esquire of York.