John Wilmot

John Wilmot was born in 1647. One of the most prominent poets and libertines of the English Restoration era, Rochester led a life of notoriety. Educated at Oxford, he served in the army and navy, participating in military campaigns. He became a central figure in the court of Charles II, known for his witty humor but also for his scandalous behavior, including drunkenness, gambling, and numerous love affairs. His poetry, written in a variety of forms, is characterized by its sexual frankness, scathing satire, and existential pessimism. He openly criticized the hypocrisy and superficiality of the aristocracy, as well as social and religious conventions. Despite his short and self-destructive life, his work left an indelible mark on English literature for its boldness and intelligence.