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The book is a biography of George Borrow, a British author, traveler, and agent of the British and Foreign Bible Society. The story begins with Borrow's early life, from his birth in 1803 to his departure for Russia in 1833. Borrow's family moved frequently during his childhood, and he was educated at various schools, developing a passion for languages and a strong sense of independence. He worked as a solicitor's clerk in Norwich but found the work dull and unfulfilling, and he began to write and translate. Borrow's life took a turn when he met the Rev. Francis Cunningham, who introduced him to the British and Foreign Bible Society. He was appointed as an agent of the Society and set out for Russia to work on translating the Bible into Manchu. The book follows Borrow's journey to Russia, where he faced numerous challenges, including sea-sickness and bureaucratic delays. Despite these obstacles, he persevered and eventually secured permission to print the Manchu Scriptures. Borrow then traveled to Spain and Portugal, where he distributed the Bible and New Testament to the people, facing opposition from the Catholic Church and the government. He was arrested and imprisoned several times but continued to work tirelessly to spread the Gospel. After his return to England, Borrow settled down at Oulton Cottage, where he devoted himself to literature and began working on a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He became a celebrated author, writing books such as "The Zincali," "The Bible in Spain," "Lavengro," and "The Romany Rye." Throughout his life, Borrow demonstrated courage, determination, and conviction, and his work had a significant impact on the people he encountered. The book concludes with Borrow's later life, during which he continued to write and travel, eventually becoming a recluse after his wife's death in 1869. He died on July 26, 1881, at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy as a writer and a pioneer in the field of gypsy studies.
The chapter tells the story of George Borrow's early life, from his birth in 1803 to his departure for Russia in 1833. Borrow's father, Thomas Borrow, was a soldier who had served in the Coldstream Guards and later became a recruiting officer. George was born while his father was on a recruiting mission in Norfolk. The family moved frequently during George's childhood, and he was educated at various schools, including the Norwich Grammar School. Borrow developed a passion for languages and became proficient in several, including Welsh, Danish, and Arabic. He also developed a strong sense of independence and a desire to travel. After completing his education, Borrow worked as a solicitor's clerk in Norwich, but he found the work dull and unfulfilling. He began to write and translate, and his first published work was a translation of Klinger's Faustus. Borrow's life took a turn when he met the Rev. Francis Cunningham, who introduced him to the British and Foreign Bible Society. The Society was looking for someone to assist with a Manchu-Tartar project, and Borrow's language skills made him an ideal candidate. He was appointed as an agent of the Society and set out for Russia, where he would work on translating the Bible into Manchu.
The chapter describes George Borrow's life from May 1816 to March 1824. During this period, Borrow's family settled in Norwich, and he attended the local grammar school. He showed little interest in academic studies but developed a passion for languages, particularly French, Spanish, and Italian. Borrow's father, Captain Thomas Borrow, was concerned about his son's future and considered various career options for him, including the army and the church. However, Borrow's facility with languages and his independent nature made it challenging for his father to determine a suitable profession for him. In 1819, Borrow was articled to a solicitor, Simpson & Rackham, but he spent more time learning Welsh and other languages than studying law. He also developed a strong interest in boxing and horsemanship. The chapter concludes with Captain Borrow's death in 1824, which had a significant impact on George Borrow's life and future decisions.
The chapter describes George Borrow's life from April 1824 to May 1825. After his father's death, Borrow left Norwich and traveled to London, where he met with Sir Richard Phillips, a publisher, to discuss potential employment opportunities. However, their meeting was unsuccessful, and Borrow was left to his own devices. He spent his days exploring the city and working on his literary projects, including a translation of Klinger's Faustus. Borrow's financial situation was precarious, and he was forced to live on a meager budget. Despite these challenges, he remained determined to pursue a career in literature. The chapter also touches on Borrow's relationships with his family, particularly his brother John, who was struggling to establish himself as an artist.
George Borrow, after a series of failures and disappointments, was introduced to the Rev. Francis Cunningham, who recognized his talent for languages and recommended him to the British and Foreign Bible Society. Borrow was appointed as an agent of the Society to learn Manchu and assist in translating the Bible into that language. He threw himself into the task, studying the language intensively and making rapid progress. Despite initial skepticism from some members of the Committee, Borrow's confidence and determination ultimately won them over, and he was sent to St Petersburg to work with Mr. Lipovzoff on the translation. Borrow was given a salary of £200 a year and expenses, and he set off for Russia with letters of introduction to influential people, including Prince Alexander Galitzin and Baron Schilling de Canstadt.
This chapter covers the period from September 1825 to December 1832 in George Borrow's life. During this time, Borrow's life was marked by hardship and misfortune, which he chose to keep private, referring to it as the "Veiled Period." Despite his struggles, he continued to pursue his passion for languages and literature. In 1825, he became acquainted with the Rev. Francis Cunningham, who recognized his talent for languages and introduced him to the British and Foreign Bible Society. The Society was working on a Manchu-Tartar project, and Borrow's language skills made him an ideal candidate. He was appointed as an agent of the Society and set out for Russia to work on translating the Bible into Manchu. Borrow's journey to Russia was not without its challenges, but he was determined to succeed. He walked from Norwich to London, a distance of 112 miles, in 27.5 hours, and then traveled to Russia, where he would spend the next few years working on the Manchu translation.
George Borrow's life took a significant turn in January 1833 when he met with the Rev. Francis Cunningham, who introduced him to the British and Foreign Bible Society. The Society was looking for someone to assist with a Manchu-Tartar project, and Borrow's language skills made him an ideal candidate. He was appointed as an agent of the Society and set out for Russia to work on translating the Bible into Manchu. Borrow threw himself into the task, studying the language intensively and making rapid progress. Despite initial skepticism from some members of the Committee, Borrow's confidence and determination ultimately won them over, and he was sent to St Petersburg to work with Mr. Lipovzoff on the translation. Borrow was given a salary of £200 a year and expenses, and he set off for Russia with letters of introduction to influential people, including Prince Alexander Galitzin and Baron Schilling de Canstadt.
George Borrow arrived in St. Petersburg, Russia, where he was to assist Mr. Lipovzoff in editing the Manchu Testament. Despite initial difficulties, including sea-sickness and a brief fit of delirium, Borrow recovered and began his work. He was impressed by the city's grandeur and the kindness of the people, who received him warmly due to his knowledge of the Russian language. Borrow presented his letters of introduction to Prince Alexander Galítzin and Baron Schilling de Canstadt, who would later provide significant assistance in his endeavors. He also met John P. Hasfeldt, a man of similar age, who would become a close friend and correspondent. Borrow's primary objective was to obtain permission to print the Manchu Scriptures, which he eventually secured after overcoming numerous obstacles, including bureaucratic delays and opposition from officials. With the help of Baron Schilling, he was able to procure the necessary paper and printing services, and the project was finally completed. Borrow's time in St. Petersburg was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Russian officialdom and worked to achieve his goals.
This chapter continues the story of George Borrow's life, focusing on his time in Spain as an agent of the British and Foreign Bible Society. Borrow arrived in Spain in 1836, amidst a civil war, and was determined to distribute the Scriptures and introduce the Gospel to the Spanish people. He faced numerous challenges, including opposition from the Catholic Church and the government, but persevered in his mission. Borrow traveled extensively throughout Spain, often in dangerous and uncertain conditions, and encountered various individuals, including gypsies, bandits, and clergy. Despite the difficulties, he remained committed to his goal and eventually obtained permission to print the New Testament in Spanish. The chapter also touches on Borrow's personal life, including his relationships with his mother and friends, and his own spiritual struggles and doubts. Throughout the chapter, Borrow's courage, determination, and conviction are evident, as he navigates the complexities of Spanish society and politics to fulfill his mission.
This chapter continues the story of George Borrow's life, focusing on his time in Spain as an agent of the British and Foreign Bible Society. Borrow arrived in Spain in 1836, amidst a civil war, and was determined to distribute the Scriptures and introduce the Gospel to the Spanish people. He faced numerous challenges, including opposition from the Catholic Church and the government, but persevered in his mission. Borrow traveled extensively throughout Spain, often in dangerous and uncertain conditions, and encountered various individuals, including gypsies, bandits, and clergy. Despite the difficulties, he remained committed to his goal and eventually obtained permission to print the New Testament in Spanish. The chapter also touches on Borrow's personal life, including his relationships with his mother and friends, and his own spiritual struggles and doubts. Throughout the chapter, Borrow's courage, determination, and conviction are evident, as he navigates the complexities of Spanish society and politics to fulfill his mission.
George Borrow, an agent of the British and Foreign Bible Society, arrived in Portugal in November 1835. He was tasked with distributing the Scriptures and introducing the Gospel to the Portuguese people. Borrow traveled extensively throughout Portugal, often in dangerous and uncertain conditions, and encountered various individuals, including gypsies, bandits, and clergy. Despite the difficulties, he remained committed to his goal and eventually obtained permission to print the New Testament in Spanish. Borrow's journey took him to Spain, where he met with the Prime Minister, Juan Álvarez y Mendizábal, and obtained permission to print the New Testament without notes. However, the Revolution of La Granja broke out, and the press became free, allowing Borrow to print the New Testament without restriction. Borrow returned to England in October 1836 but was soon sent back to Spain to distribute the New Testament. He traveled to various cities, including Salamanca, Valladolid, and León, and sold many copies of the New Testament. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people.
George Borrow's life took a significant turn in 1836 when he arrived in Spain, amidst a civil war, to distribute the Scriptures and introduce the Gospel to the Spanish people. He faced numerous challenges, including opposition from the Catholic Church and the government, but persevered in his mission. Borrow traveled extensively throughout Spain, often in dangerous and uncertain conditions, and encountered various individuals, including gypsies, bandits, and clergy. Despite the difficulties, he remained committed to his goal and eventually obtained permission to print the New Testament in Spanish. Borrow's journey took him to Madrid, where he met with the Prime Minister, Juan Álvarez y Mendizábal, and obtained permission to print the New Testament without notes. He also visited other cities, including Salamanca, Valladolid, and León, and sold many copies of the New Testament. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people.
George Borrow arrived in St. Petersburg, Russia, where he was to assist Mr. Lipovzoff in editing the Manchu Testament. Despite initial difficulties, including sea-sickness and a brief fit of delirium, Borrow recovered and began his work. He was impressed by the city's grandeur and the kindness of the people, who received him warmly due to his knowledge of the Russian language. Borrow presented his letters of introduction to Prince Alexander Galítzin and Baron Schilling de Canstadt, who would later provide significant assistance in his endeavors. He also met John P. Hasfeldt, a man of similar age, who would become a close friend and correspondent. Borrow's primary objective was to obtain permission to print the Manchu Scriptures, which he eventually secured after overcoming numerous obstacles. With the help of Baron Schilling, he was able to procure the necessary paper and printing services, and the project was finally completed. Borrow's time in St. Petersburg was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Russian officialdom and worked to achieve his goals.
George Borrow's life took a significant turn as he traveled to Spain and Portugal to distribute the Scriptures and introduce the Gospel to the people. He faced numerous challenges, including opposition from the Catholic Church and the government, but persevered in his mission. Borrow traveled extensively throughout Spain and Portugal, often in dangerous and uncertain conditions, and encountered various individuals, including gypsies, bandits, and clergy. Despite the difficulties, he remained committed to his goal and eventually obtained permission to print the New Testament in Spanish. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He believed that the key to success lay in distributing the Scriptures in the most remote and inaccessible regions of Spain, where the people were most in need of spiritual guidance. Borrow's journey was marked by many adventures, including a visit to the extreme point of the Old World, Cape Finisterre, where he was arrested as a spy but later released. He also encountered a group of Spanish gentlemen who thanked him for bringing the New Testament to their region and expressed their desire to obtain the Old Testament as well. Throughout his journey, Borrow demonstrated his courage, determination, and conviction, and his work had a significant impact on the people he encountered.
George Borrow continued his work in Spain, distributing the Bible and New Testament to the people, despite facing opposition and persecution from the authorities and the Catholic Church. He was arrested and imprisoned in Madrid, but was released after the British Minister intervened on his behalf. Borrow then traveled to Seville, where he continued his work, using various assistants, including a Greek bricklayer and a Jewish lad. He also made a trip to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Meanwhile, the Bible Society in London was experiencing difficulties, including a dispute with Lieutenant Graydon, another agent of the Society, who was causing trouble in Spain with his provocative actions and writings. The Society eventually recalled Borrow to London, but not before he had distributed many copies of the Bible and New Testament in Spain and North Africa. Throughout his time in Spain, Borrow faced many challenges and dangers, but he remained committed to his mission and continued to work tirelessly to spread the Gospel to the people.
George Borrow continued to face challenges in his mission to distribute the Bible in Spain. He was arrested and imprisoned in Seville, but was released after the British Consul intervened on his behalf. Borrow was outraged by the treatment he received and demanded satisfaction from the Spanish authorities. He wrote to the British Minister, Lord Clarendon, detailing the events surrounding his arrest and imprisonment, and calling for action to be taken against the Spanish authorities. Borrow's imprisonment was a major setback for his mission, but he remained determined to continue his work. He eventually left Seville and returned to Madrid, where he began to make plans to leave Spain and return to England. Despite the difficulties he faced, Borrow remained committed to his mission and was proud of the work he had accomplished in Spain. He believed that his efforts had helped to spread the Gospel and bring people to Christ, and he was eager to share his experiences with the Bible Society and the British public.
George Borrow, an agent of the British and Foreign Bible Society, continued his work in Spain, distributing the Bible and New Testament to the people. However, he faced numerous challenges, including opposition from the Catholic Church and the government. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he used various assistants, including a Greek bricklayer and a Jewish lad, to help him distribute the Scriptures. He also made a trip to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Meanwhile, the Bible Society in London was experiencing difficulties, including a dispute with Lieutenant Graydon, another agent of the Society, who was causing trouble in Spain with his provocative actions and writings. The Society eventually recalled Borrow to London, but not before he had distributed many copies of the Bible and New Testament in Spain and North Africa. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. Despite the difficulties he faced, Borrow remained committed to his mission and continued to work tirelessly to spread the Gospel to the people.
George Borrow continued his work in Spain, distributing the Bible and New Testament to the people, despite facing opposition from the Catholic Church and the government. He was arrested and imprisoned in Seville, but was released after the British Consul intervened on his behalf. Borrow then traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. He also made a trip to La Mancha, where he sold many copies of the New Testament. Meanwhile, the Bible Society in London was experiencing difficulties, including a dispute with Lieutenant Graydon, another agent of the Society, who was causing trouble in Spain with his provocative actions and writings. The Society eventually recalled Borrow to London, but not before he had distributed many copies of the Bible and New Testament in Spain and North Africa. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. He believed that the key to success lay in distributing the Scriptures in the most remote and inaccessible regions of Spain, where the people were most in need of spiritual guidance. Borrow's journey was marked by many adventures, including a visit to the extreme point of the Old World, Cape Finisterre, where he was arrested as a spy but later released. He also encountered a group of Spanish gentlemen who thanked him for bringing the New Testament to their region and expressed their desire to obtain the Old Testament as well. Throughout his journey, Borrow demonstrated his courage, determination, and conviction, and his work had a significant impact on the people he encountered.
George Borrow continued his work in Spain, distributing the Bible and New Testament to the people, despite facing opposition from the Catholic Church and the government. He traveled to various parts of the country, including Madrid, Seville, and La Mancha, and sold many copies of the New Testament. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He also had to deal with the consequences of Lieutenant Graydon's actions, who had been distributing the Scriptures in a provocative manner, which had led to a backlash against the Bible Society. Borrow's own imprisonment in Madrid and later in Seville did not deter him, and he continued to work tirelessly to distribute the Scriptures, even after his release. He eventually left Spain and traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Throughout his journey, Borrow demonstrated his courage, determination, and conviction, and his work had a significant impact on the people he encountered.
George Borrow continued his work in Spain, distributing the Bible and New Testament to the people, despite facing opposition from the Catholic Church and the government. He traveled to various parts of the country, including Madrid, Seville, and La Mancha, and sold many copies of the New Testament. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He believed that the key to success lay in distributing the Scriptures in the most remote and inaccessible regions of Spain, where the people were most in need of spiritual guidance. Borrow's journey was marked by many adventures, including a visit to the extreme point of the Old World, Cape Finisterre, where he was arrested as a spy but later released. He also encountered a group of Spanish gentlemen who thanked him for bringing the New Testament to their region and expressed their desire to obtain the Old Testament as well. Throughout his journey, Borrow demonstrated his courage, determination, and conviction, and his work had a significant impact on the people he encountered.
George Borrow's life took a significant turn when he met the Marqués de Santa Coloma in Seville. The Marqués had great difficulty finding Borrow, but eventually located him with the help of a description. Borrow was living with his wife and daughter, who were referred to as his wife and daughter by the Marqués, although it is unclear if they were actually married at the time. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He eventually left Spain and traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. After his return to England, Borrow settled down at Oulton Cottage, where he devoted himself to literature and began working on a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He also became involved in horse-breaking and was known for his love of animals. Borrow's first book, "The Zincali," was published in 1841 and was a success, although it was not without its critics. He went on to write "The Bible in Spain," which was also a success, and became a celebrated author. However, Borrow's personal life was marked by difficulties, including a dispute with his neighbor, the rector of Oulton, and a failed attempt to become a magistrate. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write, producing works such as "Lavengro" and "The Romany Rye."
George Borrow continued his life as a writer and a gentleman of means, living at Oulton Cottage in Suffolk with his wife and step-daughter. He spent his time writing, socializing with friends and family, and enjoying the countryside. However, he was not without his troubles, including a dispute with his neighbor, the rector of Oulton, and a failed attempt to become a magistrate. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write, producing works such as "Lavengro" and "The Romany Rye". His writing was not without controversy, and he faced criticism for his glorification of vagabondage and his attacks on gentility. Nevertheless, Borrow remained committed to his art and his vision, and his works continue to be celebrated for their unique blend of adventure, humor, and social commentary.
George Borrow continued to work on his book, "The Bible in Spain", with the help of his wife, who acted as his amanuensis. He also received guidance from Richard Ford, who advised him to focus on his personal adventures and experiences, rather than on fine writing or descriptions of scenery. Borrow's book was eventually published in December 1842 and received positive reviews, with many critics praising its vivid and engaging style. However, Borrow was not without his critics, and some reviewers found his writing to be too focused on himself and his own experiences. Despite this, "The Bible in Spain" was a commercial success, and Borrow became a celebrated author. He was invited to social events and parties, where he was often the center of attention, and he enjoyed the admiration and praise of his fans. However, Borrow's success also brought him some negative attention, and he was criticized by some for his perceived arrogance and self-importance. In 1844, Borrow began working on a new book, "Lavengro", which would be an autobiography of sorts, detailing his early life and experiences. He worked on the book for several years, but it was not published until 1851. In the meantime, Borrow continued to write and publish other works, including "The Zincali", a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He also became involved in various controversies and disputes, including a feud with a neighbor over a dog, and a disagreement with a publisher over the rights to one of his books. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent and respected figure in literary circles, and his works continued to be widely read and admired.
George Borrow's life took a significant turn in 1839 when he met the Marqués de Santa Coloma in Seville. The Marqués had difficulty finding Borrow, but eventually located him with the help of a description. Borrow was living with his wife and daughter, who were referred to as his wife and daughter by the Marqués, although it is unclear if they were actually married at the time. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He eventually left Spain and traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. After his return to England, Borrow settled down at Oulton Cottage, where he devoted himself to literature and began working on a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He also became involved in horse-breaking and was known for his love of animals. Borrow's first book, "The Zincali," was published in 1841 and was a success, although it was not without its critics. He went on to write "The Bible in Spain," which was also a success, and became a celebrated author. However, Borrow's personal life was marked by difficulties, including a dispute with his neighbor, the rector of Oulton, and a failed attempt to become a magistrate. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write, producing works such as "Lavengro" and "The Romany Rye."
George Borrow's life took a significant turn when he met the Marqués de Santa Coloma in Seville. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He eventually left Spain and traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. After his return to England, Borrow settled down at Oulton Cottage, where he devoted himself to literature and began working on a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He also became involved in horse-breaking and was known for his love of animals. Borrow's first book, "The Zincali," was published in 1841 and was a success, although it was not without its critics. He went on to write "The Bible in Spain," which was also a success, and became a celebrated author. However, Borrow's personal life was marked by difficulties, including a dispute with his neighbor, the rector of Oulton, and a failed attempt to become a magistrate. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write, producing works such as "Lavengro" and "The Romany Rye."
George Borrow's life took a significant turn when he met the Marqués de Santa Coloma in Seville. The Marqués had great difficulty finding Borrow, but eventually located him with the help of a description. Borrow was living with his wife and daughter, who were referred to as his wife and daughter by the Marqués, although it is unclear if they were actually married at the time. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He eventually left Spain and traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. After his return to England, Borrow settled down at Oulton Cottage, where he devoted himself to literature and began working on a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He also became involved in horse-breaking and was known for his love of animals. Borrow's first book, "The Zincali," was published in 1841 and was a success, although it was not without its critics. He went on to write "The Bible in Spain," which was also a success, and became a celebrated author. However, Borrow's personal life was marked by difficulties, including a dispute with his neighbor, the rector of Oulton, and a failed attempt to become a magistrate. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write, producing works such as "Lavengro" and "The Romany Rye."
The chapter discusses George Borrow's life from 1854 to 1856, during which he traveled to Wales and the Isle of Man, and his interactions with the people and culture of these places. Borrow was fascinated by the Welsh language and literature, and he spent much of his time in Wales studying and speaking with the locals. He also visited the Isle of Man, where he was interested in the island's unique culture and language. The chapter also touches on Borrow's personal life, including his relationships with his wife and stepdaughter, and his struggles with his own identity and sense of purpose. Overall, the chapter provides a detailed and nuanced portrait of Borrow's life and experiences during this period.
George Borrow's life took a significant turn when he met the Marqués de Santa Coloma in Seville. Borrow's methods were often unorthodox, and he faced opposition from the clergy, but he remained determined to spread the Gospel to the Spanish people. He eventually left Spain and traveled to Tangier, where he distributed the Scriptures to the Christians and Jews living there. Borrow's time in Spain was marked by hard work, determination, and resourcefulness, as he navigated the complexities of Spanish officialdom and worked to achieve his goals. After his return to England, Borrow settled down at Oulton Cottage, where he devoted himself to literature and began working on a book about the Spanish Gypsies. He also became involved in horse-breaking and was known for his love of animals. Borrow's first book, "The Zincali," was published in 1841 and was a success, although it was not without its critics. He went on to write "The Bible in Spain," which was also a success, and became a celebrated author. However, Borrow's personal life was marked by difficulties, including a dispute with his neighbor, the rector of Oulton, and a failed attempt to become a magistrate. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write, producing works such as "Lavengro" and "The Romany Rye." Borrow's life was also marked by his travels to Wales and the Isle of Man, where he immersed himself in the local culture and language. He was particularly drawn to the Welsh language and literature, and spent many hours studying and speaking with the locals. Borrow's time in Wales was marked by many adventures, including a visit to the extreme point of the Old World, Cape Finisterre, where he was arrested as a spy but later released. He also encountered a group of Spanish gentlemen who thanked him for bringing the New Testament to their region and expressed their desire to obtain the Old Testament as well. Throughout his journey, Borrow demonstrated his courage, determination, and conviction, and his work had a significant impact on the people he encountered.
The chapter describes George Borrow's life from July 1859 to January 1869. During this period, Borrow continued to work on his writing projects, including his translation of "The Sleeping Bard" and his book "Wild Wales". He also traveled to Wales and the Isle of Man, where he studied the local languages and cultures. In 1862, Borrow's book "Wild Wales" was published, which was a commercial success. However, his personal life was marked by difficulties, including his wife's illness and his own struggles with depression. Despite these challenges, Borrow remained a prominent figure in literary circles and continued to write until his death in 1881.
The chapter discusses George Borrow's life from 1869 to 1881. After his wife's death in 1869, Borrow became a recluse and struggled to cope with his loss. He continued to write, but his work was no longer widely recognized. In 1870, he met Charles G. Leland, an American writer who was interested in gypsy culture. Leland was impressed by Borrow's knowledge of gypsy language and customs, and the two men became friends. Borrow's health began to decline in the late 1870s, and he died on July 26, 1881, at the age of 79. His legacy as a writer and a pioneer in the field of gypsy studies was not fully recognized until after his death.