Studies in the works of Thomas Fuller

Abstract

This thesis is an attempt to supply a critical assessment of Thomas Fuller's achievement as a man of letters. Biographical facts have therefore been used merely to provide the background for an appreciation of his literary qualities. The object has been to collect for the evaluation of Fuller as a scholar and man of letters more material than has previously been assembled for that purpose. In particular(a) the aims, quality and affiliations of Fuller as a sacred orator and religious and devotional writer have Been investigated.(b) Fuller's methods of compilation and standards of historical scholarship have Been discussed against the Background of Stuart theory and practice:(c) his methods of research as an antiquary have Been assessed. This has necessitated a new survey of the antiquarian movement preceding Fuller - a survey which has shed interesting light on the structure of The Worthies. These investigations have made it possible to supplement the only major treatment of one of Fuller's works, W.M.Houghton's The Formation of Thomas Fuller's "Holy and Profane States". By demonstrating the possible influence of Fuller's pulpit technique on his characters and essays, and by stressing the inter-relationship of biography and didactic prose. In addition to these major investigations, it has proved possible to shed light on two lesser points;-(a) the link between Fuller and Richard Bernard(b) certain critical exaggerations current re Good Thoughts in Worse Times and The Cause and Cure of a Wounded Conscience. This study supports the view that Fuller's works have artistry and bear the stamp of a distinctive literary personality. In every major context whatever is characteristic in Fuller's ordonnance and expression has been studied, and in the Conclusion an attempt has been made to define anew the nature of his wit and style with reference to such contemporary trends as emblem-writing.