Edwaed Carpenter English poet, philosopher and social fighter of the late 19th - early 20th centuries. Date of Birth: 29.08.1844 Country: Great Britain

1. Biography of Edward Carpenter
2. Early Years and Education
3. Later Life and Contributions
4. Later Years and Legacy

Biography of Edward Carpenter

Edward Carpenter, an English poet, philosopher, and social activist of the late 19th to early 20th century, was born on August 29, 1844, in Brighton, United Kingdom. He was known for his collaborations and acquaintances with many prominent figures of the time, such as Isadora Duncan, Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, Jack London, Walt Whitman, and others. Carpenter actively supported the Labour Party and the Fabian Society. He was also renowned for his philosophical works, particularly his reflections on the nature of civilization, in which he argued that civilization is a sickness humanity has yet to recover from.

Early Years and Education

From a young age, Carpenter showed a passion for music and nature. He received an excellent education and began studying piano at the age of ten. In his free time, he enjoyed walks and horseback riding in tranquil places. In 1864, he enrolled in the theological faculty at Cambridge University. It was during this time that he began his homosexual experiments. Four years later, Edward was selected for the academic council, and two years after that, he was ordained as a clergyman. However, Carpenter had a change of heart and started giving lectures in British educational institutions instead of preaching. He dedicated his efforts to ensuring that even the poor could have access to education. It was the poems of Walt Whitman that deeply influenced Carpenter, affirming his love for men and initiating a correspondence between them. Later, during a visit to the United States, they had several meetings. Carpenter was also influenced by the works and ideas of Friedrich Engels, Henry Hindman, and others. In 1883, he joined the Social Democratic Federation and founded its branch in Sheffield, which later branched off into an independent society.

Later Life and Contributions

After inheriting his father's estate in Brighton, Carpenter purchased a farm in the city of Millthorpe. He lived a modest life there, surrounded by nature and without indulging in extravagance or vices. In 1891, Carpenter met George Merrill on a train, and they entered into a long-lasting relationship. During this time, Carpenter provided support to individuals in the public eye who identified as homosexual. He also released several books in which he discussed homosexuality in society and its nature. In 1902, he published the book "Lolaus," which critics derogatorily referred to as the "Bible of Pederasts." It was the first "gay literature" in the English language.

Later Years and Legacy

After the First World War, Carpenter settled in Guildford with Merrill. However, Merrill's sudden death in 1928 devastated Carpenter. A few months later, Carpenter suffered a stroke and lived in a state of helplessness until his death in 1929. Edward Carpenter left behind a legacy as an influential poet, philosopher, and advocate for social change, particularly in the realm of LGBTQ+ rights. His works continue to inspire and provoke thought on various social and philosophical issues.