Classic and Contemporary Poets

Gervase Markham, born around 1568 in Nottinghamshire, England, and died in 1637, was a prolific English writer and poet known for his works on a variety of subjects, ranging from husbandry and horsemanship to poetry and military discipline. His versatility as a writer reflects the wide-ranging interests and pragmatic spirit of the late Elizabethan and early Stuart periods.

One of Markham's most significant contributions was in the field of horsemanship and animal husbandry. His book "The Complete Horseman," first published in 1616, was one of the most comprehensive guides of its time on the subject of horse breeding, training, and care. This work, along with others such as "Cavalrice, or The English Horseman" (1607) and "Markhams Maister-Peece" (1610), established him as a leading authority on horses and horsemanship in early 17th-century England.

In addition to his equestrian and husbandry works, Markham was a noted writer on military subjects. His "The Souldier's Accidence" (1625) was a manual for young soldiers that covered a wide range of military topics, from the basic duties of a soldier to the use of various weapons. His interest in military affairs was also reflected in his involvement in various military expeditions, including campaigns in the Low Countries and Ireland.

Markham was also an accomplished poet, although his poetry has not received as much attention as his other writings. His verse often dealt with themes of love and chivalry, reflecting the Elizabethan poetic tradition. Additionally, he wrote on household management and cookery, contributing to the literature of domestic economy, which was growing in importance during his lifetime.

His works on agriculture and rural economy, such as "The English Husbandman" (1613) and "Country Contentments, or The Husbandman's Recreations" (1615), provide valuable insights into the practices and knowledge of farming and rural life in early modern England. These comprehensive guides covered topics ranging from crop cultivation and animal husbandry to beekeeping and gardening.

Gervase Markham's extensive body of work illustrates the breadth of interests and the practical focus of writing during his era. He was a figure who embodied the spirit of the Renaissance man, with expertise spanning across various fields of knowledge.

In conclusion, Gervase Markham was a notable figure in early 17th-century English literature, known for his diverse and practical writings. His contributions to horsemanship, military discipline, agriculture, and domestic economy reflect the concerns and interests of his time and have provided valuable historical insights into the practices and lifestyles of the period. His work continues to be of interest to historians and scholars studying the Elizabethan and early Stuart eras.

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