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W. C. SellarScottish humorist
Date of Birth: 27.12.1898
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
Biography of Walter Sellar
Walter Sellar was a Scottish humorist and one of the authors of 'Punch'. He is best known for his book '1066 and All That', a satirical guide to world history written in collaboration with Robert Yeatman. Sellar was born in Golspie, Sutherland, Scotland. He was descended from Patrick Sellar, who played a significant role in the deportation of Scottish Highlanders. Walter attended Fettes College on a scholarship, where he developed a passion for modern history.
Education and Military Service
During World War I, Walter served in the Scottish Royal Infantry. After the war, he pursued further education at Oriel College, Oxford, where he obtained a degree in modern history. It was at college that Sellar met Robert Yeatman, and their friendship blossomed into a highly fruitful collaboration. Despite their contrasting personalities, with Sellar being reserved and Yeatman being more outgoing, they complemented each other's writing styles.
Teaching Career
After completing his studies, Sellar initially worked at his old school. In 1928, he moved to Great Marlow, Buckinghamshire, to pursue a career as a professional writer. However, financial difficulties, as he had to support his two daughters, forced Sellar to return to teaching. He first taught at Canford School in Dorset and later relocated to Charterhouse School, where he remained until his death. While initially teaching history, Sellar later transitioned to teaching English.
Writing and Legacy
Sellar's writing career began in 1925 when he started contributing humoristic stories to 'Punch'. In 1928, he began collaborating with Yeatman on 'Punch'. The first part of their famous book '1066 and All That' was published on September 10, 1930. Sellar's contributions to the book primarily involved numerous comedic hyperboles and inventive mockery of the names of important historical figures.
Despite his teaching commitments during World War II, Sellar continued to write for 'Punch'. He often spent his meager rations and salary on his students, which made him popular but did not alleviate his own financial struggles.
On June 11, 1951, Walter Sellar passed away at the age of 52. Throughout his life, he left behind a legacy of humor and satire, particularly through his collaboration with Robert Yeatman and their influential book '1066 and All That'.
