Francis Atterbury was a prominent figure in 18th century England known for his talents as a poet, writer, and Bishop of Rochester. The spelling of his name, "Francis Atterbury," can be broken down phonetically using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈfrænsɪs ˈætərbɛri/. The pronunciation includes the /s/ and /r/ sounds in Francis, as well as the silent /h/ in Atterbury. The vowel sounds in Atterbury are also pronounced with the schwa /ə/ sound, which is common in English.
Francis Atterbury (1662-1732) was an English bishop and influential figure in the political and religious landscape of his time. He served as the Bishop of Rochester from 1713 until his deposition in 1723 due to his involvement in Jacobite plots and conspiracies.
Atterbury was known for his eloquence and literary talents, often engaging in controversial writings and speeches. He was a prominent non-juror, refusing to take an oath of allegiance to King George I, which led to his exclusion from political office.
His profound intellect and excellent oratory skills made Atterbury one of the most notable preachers of the 18th century. He delivered sermons that captivated audiences, showcasing his mastery of rhetoric and persuasive abilities. His sermons often explored theological and moral themes, appealing to the emotions and intellect of his listeners.
Additionally, Atterbury was an active participant in political affairs, strongly opposing the Hanoverian succession and supporting the exiled Stuart dynasty. This led to his alleged involvement in various Jacobite plots against the government and ultimately his banishment from England in 1723.
Despite his controversial political affiliations, Atterbury remains a significant figure in English religious and literary history. His contributions to preaching, as well as his writings and intellectual pursuits, have left a lasting impact on the religious discourse of his time.