John Keble was an English clergyman, theologian, and poet who lived from 1792 to 1866. He is best known for his contributions to the Oxford Movement, a mid-19th century religious revival movement within the Church of England.
As a poet, Keble is perhaps most famous for his collection of poems entitled "The Christian Year," published in 1827. This work, consisting of 71 poetic reflections for each Sunday and major Christian festival throughout the liturgical year, became highly influential and widely read. His poetry often explored themes of spirituality, nature, and the Christian faith, and his language was noted for its deep emotional resonance and musicality.
In addition to his poetic endeavours, Keble played a significant role as a theologian and spiritual leader. He was a prominent figure in the Oxford Movement, which sought to restore and renew elements of Catholic worship, doctrine, and ritual in the Church of England. Keble's sermons and writings, characterized by their emphasis on the importance of the sacraments and the Church's connections to both tradition and the divine, helped shape the movement and guide its followers in their theological pursuits.
Overall, John Keble's contribution to English literature and religious thought is significant. His poetry continues to be admired for its beauty and spiritual depth, while his role in the Oxford Movement remains historically important in understanding the development of the Church of England.
