# Laurence Sterne

## Biography

Laurence Sterne, an Anglo-Irish novelist and Anglican cleric, was born in Clonmel, Ireland, on November 24, 1713. His early life was marked by frequent travel as his father was an army ensign. He attended school in Halifax and later studied divinity and classics at Jesus College, Cambridge. Ordained into the Church of England in 1737, Sterne began a moderately successful ecclesiastical career, serving as vicar of Sutton-on-the-Forest and later adding the living of Stillington. He married Elizabeth Lumley in 1741, and they had a daughter, Lydia, who was their only child to survive infancy. Sterne discovered his talent for comedic writing later in life, publishing the first volumes of his groundbreaking novel, The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman, in 1759, which brought him considerable fame. His other notable work, A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy, was published shortly before his death. Afflicted by illness throughout his life, Laurence Sterne passed away in London on March 18, 1768.

## Books

- [The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman](https://samolit.com/books/96030)