Eustace Budgell

1) His Biography

Eustace Budgell was born on 19 August 1686 in St. Thomas, Exeter, England, into a prominent family. His father, Gilbert Budgell, was a well-respected clergyman, and his mother, Mary Gulston, came from a family connected to influential ecclesiastical figures. This provided Eustace with a solid foundation, especially in education and social standing. He was a cousin of the renowned writer Joseph Addison, whose influence on his life would be substantial. Budgell’s early life reflected the expectations placed upon him, as he was groomed for a career in law, one of the most respected professions in his time. He attended Christ Church, Oxford, where he pursued his studies diligently, further preparing for a professional life of distinction.

Budgell’s early association with Joseph Addison played a critical role in shaping his career trajectory. Addison, who had become a well-established figure in literary circles and government, recognised Budgell’s literary talents and provided him with opportunities to contribute to various publications. Most notably, Budgell wrote several pieces for The Spectator, a periodical co-founded by Addison and Richard Steele. This marked Budgell’s entry into the world of letters, where his essays and reflections gained some recognition. His contributions to The Spectator included witty, satirical, and moralistic essays that showcased his sharp mind and ability to engage with contemporary issues.

In addition to his literary endeavours, Budgell pursued a career in public service. Thanks to Addison’s influence, he secured a position as an under-secretary to Addison during his time as secretary of state for Ireland. Budgell moved to Dublin, where he took on further responsibilities in the Irish government, eventually rising to the position of chief secretary for Ireland. This was a significant achievement, as the role granted him both power and prestige. During this period, Budgell’s standing in society was relatively high, and his social circle included some of the most influential figures of his time.

However, Budgell’s fortunes began to decline due to a combination of personal missteps and political adversaries. His outspoken and often combative nature led him into several disputes, both in Ireland and England. He lost his position in the Irish government in 1717, following a change in political leadership. Despite his dismissal, Budgell remained active in literary and public life, continuing to write and seeking other governmental appointments, though with less success than before. His financial situation became increasingly precarious, and he struggled with debts throughout much of his later life.

One of the most controversial episodes in Budgell’s life involved the will of Dr. Matthew Tindal, a prominent deist. Upon Tindal’s death in 1733, Budgell was named as the beneficiary of a considerable sum in the will, a development that shocked many, as Tindal and Budgell were not known to be particularly close. The situation escalated when members of Tindal’s family contested the will, accusing Budgell of forging it. While the legal proceedings did not conclusively prove any wrongdoing, the scandal tarnished Budgell’s reputation, and he was widely ridiculed in the press. Alexander Pope famously mocked him in The Dunciad, further damaging his public image.

Financial ruin and public humiliation marked the final years of Budgell’s life. His efforts to rebuild his career and restore his reputation proved futile, and by the early 1730s, his debts had become overwhelming. His literary contributions, while recognised, were insufficient to support him financially. Budgell’s downfall was steep, and his personal life mirrored the instability of his public career. On 4 May 1737, overwhelmed by financial despair and social ostracism, he took his own life by drowning himself in the River Thames. He left behind a note that read, “What Cato did, and Addison approved, cannot be wrong.” The reference to Cato, a Roman statesman who took his own life rather than surrender to Julius Caesar, alluded to Budgell’s view of suicide as a dignified act in the face of insurmountable adversity.

2) Main Works

Contributions to The Spectator:

Eustace Budgell is perhaps best known for his contributions to The Spectator, a highly influential periodical founded by his cousin Joseph Addison and Richard Steele. The Spectator was a daily publication that ran from 1711 to 1714, focusing on topics such as politics, philosophy, and morality, delivered in a witty and engaging style. Budgell’s essays in The Spectator were noted for their sharp wit, moral reflections, and insightful observations on contemporary society. His writings reflected a keen understanding of human nature, often examining the follies and virtues of his fellow Englishmen, and contributed to the intellectual discourse of the time.

One of Budgell’s most notable pieces for The Spectator was his essay on “The Aims of Ambition,” which explored the dangers of unchecked personal ambition. In this essay, he cautioned against the pursuit of power and wealth at the expense of moral integrity, an ironic theme considering Budgell’s later life struggles with financial ruin. His work for The Spectator helped to solidify his reputation as a sharp social commentator and added significantly to the paper’s popularity. Even though he was one of several contributors, Budgell’s distinct voice and engaging style stood out, making his contributions a key part of The Spectator’s lasting legacy.

Memoirs of the Life and Character of the Late Earl of Orrery:

Published in 1732, this biography was one of Budgell’s significant attempts to capitalise on his literary abilities. The work was a biographical account of Charles Boyle, the 4th Earl of Orrery, a noted scholar, soldier, and diplomat. Budgell had known Boyle personally and sought to provide a detailed and respectful account of his life and accomplishments. The book was more than just a straightforward biography; it was also a reflection of the political and intellectual milieu of the time. Budgell’s connection with prominent figures like Boyle allowed him to present a nuanced portrayal of the Earl’s contributions to public life.

While the work was well-researched and received some praise for its detailed depiction of the Earl’s achievements, it did not garner the success that Budgell had hoped. His financial troubles at the time, coupled with his increasingly tarnished reputation, overshadowed the book’s publication. Nevertheless, Memoirs of the Life and Character of the Late Earl of Orrery remains a valuable historical document, offering insights into the aristocratic and political circles of early 18th-century England. Budgell’s literary skills are evident in the biography, even if the work did not bring him the financial relief he desperately needed.

Contributions to The Guardian:

Following his successful work on The Spectator, Budgell also contributed to The Guardian, another periodical founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele in 1713. While The Guardian was less influential than The Spectator, it still provided a platform for writers to engage with contemporary social and political issues. Budgell’s essays in The Guardian were often moralistic in tone, much like his work in The Spectator, but with a slightly more personal and reflective touch. He explored themes such as the nature of happiness, the importance of virtue, and the role of reason in human affairs.

One of his standout pieces in The Guardian was his essay on “The Consolations of Philosophy,” where he discussed the Stoic ideals of enduring hardship with dignity. The essay, with its emphasis on rationality and emotional restraint, reflected the intellectual currents of the time, particularly the influence of classical philosophy on Enlightenment thinking. Budgell’s contributions to The Guardian showcased his ability to blend philosophical ideas with contemporary social commentary, though the periodical itself did not have the same long-lasting impact as The Spectator.

Liberty and Property – A Pamphlet:

In 1732, Budgell published Liberty and Property, a political pamphlet that addressed issues of freedom and ownership, key topics in 18th-century political discourse. At a time when Britain was navigating its place as an emerging constitutional monarchy, with the rights of individuals and property increasingly debated, Budgell’s pamphlet offered a clear and strong defence of personal liberty. He argued against the encroachment of government into private lives, particularly in relation to taxation and property rights, reflecting the broader concerns of many Britons during the period.

While Liberty and Property resonated with certain political factions, especially Whigs who were concerned with maintaining civil liberties, it was also criticised for its overtly polemical tone. Budgell’s writing in this pamphlet demonstrated his political acumen, but it also revealed his increasingly combative nature. His strong opinions alienated some readers, especially those with differing political allegiances. Despite this, Liberty and Property remains an important work for understanding the political tensions of early 18th-century Britain, particularly in the context of debates about governance and individual rights.

Translation of Theophrastus’ Characters:

In 1714, Budgell published a translation of The Characters of Theophrastus, an ancient Greek text that offered a series of character sketches highlighting different types of personalities and behaviours. The original work by Theophrastus, a student of Aristotle, was a moral and philosophical exploration of human virtues and vices. Budgell’s translation was intended to introduce this classic work to an English-speaking audience, reflecting the growing interest in classical literature during the Enlightenment period. His translation was not merely a literal rendering of the Greek text but included commentary that connected Theophrastus’ observations to contemporary English society.

Budgell’s work on Theophrastus’ Characters was well-received in intellectual circles for its scholarly value and its insights into human nature. The translation displayed Budgell’s own interest in moral philosophy and his ability to adapt ancient ideas to the concerns of his time. However, while it gained some praise, the work did not achieve widespread commercial success, and like much of Budgell’s later efforts, it did little to alleviate his financial difficulties. Nevertheless, it remains a testament to his literary and intellectual pursuits and his desire to engage with the broader philosophical traditions of Europe.

3) Main Themes

Ambition and its Consequences:

One of the central themes in Eustace Budgell’s writings is the examination of ambition and its moral implications. In several of his essays, particularly those contributed to The Spectator, Budgell delves into the dangers of unchecked ambition, reflecting his own personal concerns with social status, power, and personal advancement. Budgell critiques the human desire for success when it comes at the cost of personal integrity or moral values. His portrayal of ambition often serves as a cautionary tale, warning that the relentless pursuit of personal gain can lead to ruin, a theme echoed in his own life as his desire for power and recognition ultimately contributed to his downfall.

One key aspect of Budgell’s treatment of ambition is his exploration of the internal conflict that arises when ambition clashes with morality. Drawing on classical Stoic philosophy, which emphasises virtue and self-control, Budgell suggests that ambition without moral restraint leads to corruption and self-destruction. In this regard, Budgell’s contribution is reminiscent of the works of Shakespeare, particularly in plays like Macbeth, where unchecked ambition leads to personal and societal collapse. However, Budgell’s take is more direct and moralistic, showing his belief in the inherent need for ethical constraints in one’s pursuits.

Budgell, who lived during a time of significant political upheaval and personal hardship, saw firsthand how ambition could not only destroy individuals but also disrupt the social order. He contrasts virtuous ambition, which seeks the common good, with selfish ambition, which causes harm to others. His reflections on the consequences of ambition share similarities with contemporary thinkers like Alexander Pope, whose poem The Dunciad also mocks the folly of those consumed by a drive for power. However, unlike Pope’s satire, Budgell’s moral lessons are more didactic, focusing on teaching readers how to avoid such pitfalls.

The Fragility of Reputation:

Reputation is another dominant theme in Budgell’s works, often discussed in relation to the public life of 18th-century England, where one’s social standing could be easily undermined by scandal. Budgell was acutely aware of the precarious nature of reputation, particularly as his own reputation suffered from controversies, including the scandal involving Dr. Matthew Tindal’s will. His writings suggest a profound understanding of how quickly one’s name can be sullied and how difficult it is to recover from public disgrace, making this theme both personal and universal in his work.

Budgell’s original contribution to this theme lies in his detailed exploration of reputation as both a personal and public asset. He recognises that reputation is built not only through personal virtue but also through the perception of others. In The Spectator and The Guardian, he often emphasises the idea that reputation is fragile and can be destroyed by a single misstep or accusation, regardless of one’s previous good deeds. This idea parallels the concerns of his contemporaries, such as Jonathan Swift, whose works also reflect anxieties about public perception and character, particularly in his Gulliver’s Travels, where public opinion can dramatically shift based on trivial matters.

Another aspect of Budgell’s treatment of reputation is his examination of its social consequences. He recognised that reputation in 18th-century England was not just a reflection of individual morality but a key determinant of one’s place in society. His personal experience with the Dr. Tindal scandal showed him that the court of public opinion often held more sway than the actual facts. This aspect of his work can be compared to Samuel Johnson’s thoughts on reputation, where Johnson too laments how public opinion can unfairly taint even the most virtuous of individuals. However, Budgell’s reflections are more personal, grounded in his own experience of public shame and financial ruin.

The Value of Classical Learning:

Budgell was deeply influenced by classical literature, philosophy, and moral thought, a theme that is recurrent in his writings. His translation of The Characters of Theophrastus is a key example of his engagement with classical learning, where he sought to adapt ancient philosophical ideas to the context of 18th-century England. For Budgell, classical knowledge was not merely academic; it was a vital resource for understanding human nature and guiding ethical behaviour. His work demonstrates a reverence for the lessons of antiquity, as well as a desire to make them accessible to a contemporary audience.

Budgell often referenced the teachings of Stoicism, particularly the idea of enduring life’s hardships with virtue and dignity. This focus on Stoic ideals was also shared by other Enlightenment thinkers like Marcus Aurelius and Epictetus, who were rediscovered during this period. However, Budgell’s unique contribution lies in his ability to apply these ancient ideas to modern concerns, such as ambition and reputation, making them relevant for a new generation of readers.

He believed that a well-rounded education in classical literature and philosophy was essential for creating virtuous citizens and effective leaders. This idea was common in the Enlightenment, but Budgell distinguished himself by connecting it with the practical realities of public service, drawing on his own experiences in government. His advocacy for classical learning can be compared to Joseph Addison’s similar views, though Addison’s approach was more literary, while Budgell’s focus was more moral and civic.

Morality and Social Commentary:

Morality, especially in relation to societal behaviour, is another major theme in Budgell’s work. Throughout his essays, he reflects on the moral responsibilities of individuals within society, often adopting a critical stance towards behaviours he deemed corrupt or unvirtuous. His contributions to The Spectator and The Guardian frequently took the form of moralistic advice or cautionary tales, seeking to instruct readers on how to navigate the complexities of social life with integrity and virtue. His deep concern with public morality aligned with the broader moral tone of the period, which saw writers like Samuel Richardson using novels to provide moral instruction.

Budgell’s treatment of morality is multifaceted. One aspect is his focus on personal responsibility. He believed that individuals must be held accountable for their actions, especially in public life. This ties into his concern with reputation, but goes further in exploring how personal morality impacts the greater social good. Budgell, like many of his contemporaries, such as Steele, used his writings to encourage virtuous behaviour, drawing on classical ideas about honour and integrity. However, Budgell’s tone was often more didactic, making his moral lessons more direct than the more subtly instructive works of Steele.

A second aspect is Budgell’s critique of societal hypocrisy. He was not afraid to call out the inconsistencies in the behaviour of the elite, particularly in how they navigated issues of power, wealth, and status. This critique can be compared to Alexander Pope’s satirical work, especially in The Dunciad, where Pope also takes aim at the corrupt moral landscape of his time. However, Budgell’s style lacked the biting satire of Pope, leaning more towards earnest moralising, which reflected his own personal struggles with the moral compromises he saw in his professional life.

The Burden of Financial Instability:

A recurring and personal theme in Budgell’s writings is the burden of financial instability, a reflection of his own struggles with debt and economic ruin. Despite his early successes, Budgell’s later life was marked by severe financial difficulties, and this personal hardship found its way into his work. He wrote about the anxiety and shame associated with debt, the social stigma of poverty, and the challenges of navigating a world where financial standing was often tied to personal worth. This theme is particularly poignant given Budgell’s own experiences of being publicly disgraced over financial matters, especially the contested will of Dr. Matthew Tindal.

Budgell conveys the constant anxiety and despair that accompany a life burdened by debt, and he often reflects on how financial ruin can lead to social isolation. His portrayal of this emotional turmoil can be compared to Samuel Johnson’s reflections on poverty, where Johnson also describes the mental strain that financial instability places on individuals. However, Budgell’s treatment is more personal and immediate, making his writings on the subject deeply autobiographical.

A second aspect involves Budgell’s critique of a society that equates financial success with personal virtue. In his view, the association of wealth with moral worth was deeply flawed, as it often overlooked the personal qualities of integrity and honour. This critique aligns with the works of contemporary writers like Daniel Defoe, whose novel Moll Flanders also explores how society judges individuals based on their financial circumstances. Budgell’s reflections are tinged with a sense of personal tragedy, as his own financial failures led to his ultimate demise, making his commentary both a social critique and a personal lament.

4) Budgell as Writer

Eustace Budgell’s identity as a writer is multifaceted, shaped by his experiences as a politician, a man of letters, and a figure deeply influenced by personal ambition and public controversy. Budgell was a versatile writer whose work spanned various genres, from political essays to moralistic tales and translations of classical texts. His contributions to The Spectator and The Guardian, alongside his own individual works, reveal his skills in crafting sharp social commentary, blending wit with moral reflection. Budgell’s ability to address contemporary societal issues, while drawing upon classical sources, illustrates his intellectual breadth and his determination to use writing as a means of influencing public opinion.

Budgell’s writing is often characterised by a moralistic tone, reflecting his deep concern with personal virtue and social integrity. His essays in The Spectator frequently focus on moral questions, offering his readers advice on how to live virtuously within the increasingly commercial and politically charged society of early 18th-century England. This moralising bent places Budgell in the tradition of other great essayists of the period, such as Joseph Addison and Richard Steele. However, while Budgell shared their commitment to moral instruction, his approach was often more direct and didactic. Unlike Addison, who used humour and irony to convey moral lessons, Budgell’s tone was more earnest, revealing his strong sense of personal morality and desire to reform society.

As a writer, Budgell also had a keen sense of the political dynamics of his time. He often used his pen to engage with the political issues of the day, especially during his time as a Member of Parliament and his association with prominent Whig figures. His political essays demonstrate his understanding of the complexities of power, social hierarchy, and public life. Budgell’s political leanings often reflected his personal ambition, as he sought to align himself with influential figures and secure his own position within the political sphere. This intertwining of personal ambition and political commentary can be seen in his later writings, where his growing frustration with his own lack of success and the public scandals surrounding him shaped a more bitter and critical tone in his work.

One of Budgell’s most distinctive contributions as a writer was his engagement with classical literature and philosophy. His translation of The Characters of Theophrastus showcases his reverence for classical thought and his desire to bring these ideas into conversation with contemporary English society. Budgell believed that classical learning was not only a source of intellectual enrichment but also a guide for moral and civic behaviour. His classical translations and references in his essays helped to position him as a learned writer, deeply connected to the intellectual traditions of antiquity. However, Budgell did not merely reproduce classical ideas; he adapted them, making them relevant to the moral and political issues of his time.

Budgell’s writing style, while marked by moral instruction and political commentary, also displayed elements of wit and sharp observation. His essays often critiqued the follies of society, particularly those of the upper classes. Although he lacked the biting satire of contemporaries like Jonathan Swift or Alexander Pope, Budgell was skilled at pointing out the moral inconsistencies and hypocrisies of those in power. His use of humour was subtler and often underpinned by a genuine concern for ethical conduct. This approach allowed him to engage with his readers on moral issues without resorting to the harshness of satire, though his later writings, after his public disgrace, did reveal a more cynical and embittered tone.

Another important aspect of Budgell’s identity as a writer was his personal investment in reputation and legacy. Much of his work reflects a deep awareness of the fragility of public reputation, an issue that was undoubtedly influenced by his own struggles with scandal and financial instability. Budgell’s writing frequently grapples with the tension between personal ambition and moral integrity, revealing the extent to which his own life informed his literary output. His preoccupation with reputation also led him to write more defensive and self-justifying works in his later years, as he attempted to salvage his name and explain his actions to the public. This blending of personal and public concerns adds a layer of complexity to his work, showing how his writing evolved in response to his own experiences.

In his final years, Budgell’s writing became increasingly self-reflective and melancholic, as he struggled with financial ruin and social disgrace. His later works are marked by a tone of disillusionment, as he confronted the consequences of his own ambition and the fickle nature of public opinion. This shift in tone suggests that Budgell was a writer deeply affected by the circumstances of his life, using his pen both as a tool for moral instruction and as a means of grappling with his own personal challenges. His tragic end, marked by his alleged suicide in 1737, casts a shadow over his legacy, but his work remains a testament to his intellectual engagement with the moral and political issues of his time.

5) Budgell as Politician

Eustace Budgell’s career as a politician was as complex and turbulent as his life as a writer. He entered the political sphere during a period of significant upheaval in British politics, and his actions within that realm were marked by ambition, controversy, and ultimately, disappointment. His involvement in politics was deeply connected to his literary career, as he often used his writing as a vehicle for political expression. However, Budgell’s political life is often overshadowed by the personal and financial struggles that came to define his later years.

Budgell’s political career began when he secured a position as an under-secretary to the prominent Whig statesman Joseph Addison, his cousin, during Addison’s time as Secretary of State for the Southern Department. This connection gave Budgell early exposure to the workings of government and politics, and it was through Addison’s influence that he first entered the public stage. Budgell was closely associated with the Whigs, a political party that championed constitutional monarchism, the supremacy of Parliament, and religious tolerance, particularly for Protestants. His alignment with the Whigs reflected his intellectual leanings, as he shared many of their values, especially in terms of supporting the Glorious Revolution and the Protestant succession.

One of Budgell’s key political appointments came in 1710 when he was appointed to the position of Commissioner for the Irish Revenue. This role took him to Ireland, where he worked for several years and gained experience in governmental administration. His time in Ireland was significant, not only for his political career but also for his financial wellbeing, as it provided him with a substantial income. However, this appointment also exposed him to the volatile world of court politics, where patronage and favour could change rapidly. Budgell’s fortunes were closely tied to those of his cousin Addison, and when Addison fell out of favour with the political elite, Budgell’s own position became precarious.

In 1713, Budgell entered Parliament as the Member of Parliament for the Irish borough of Mullingar, further solidifying his involvement in the political landscape. His time as an MP allowed him to engage directly with legislative matters, though his tenure was not marked by any significant legislative achievements. Budgell’s parliamentary career was relatively short-lived, but it was during this time that he demonstrated his capacity for political writing. His essays and pamphlets, many of which were published in periodicals such as The Spectator and The Guardian, often contained implicit or explicit political messages. Budgell used his platform to promote Whig ideals, support the Hanoverian succession, and critique the actions of the Tory government.

Budgell’s political career took a sharp turn in 1716 when he was dismissed from his position in Ireland following accusations of mismanagement and corruption. Although he vigorously defended himself, claiming that his dismissal was politically motivated, the loss of his post marked the beginning of a long period of financial difficulty for Budgell. His fall from political grace was compounded by his increasing estrangement from Addison and other influential Whig figures, leaving him without powerful patrons to support his ambitions. This event also marked the start of Budgell’s shift towards a more embittered and polemical style of writing, as he sought to defend his reputation and attack those he believed were responsible for his downfall.

Despite these setbacks, Budgell continued to engage in political life, albeit in a less formal capacity. He became known for his outspoken criticism of figures in power, particularly those in the Tory administration. His writing during this period became more personal and vitriolic, as he sought to expose corruption and hypocrisy within the government. Budgell’s pamphlets and essays, though often well-argued, did little to rehabilitate his political career. Instead, they alienated him further from the political establishment and reinforced his reputation as a disgraced and bitter figure.

Budgell’s later political involvement became increasingly erratic and desperate as he struggled with financial ruin and social isolation. One of the most notorious incidents in his political life was his involvement in the public scandal surrounding Dr. Matthew Tindal’s will. Budgell was accused of forging Tindal’s will to gain a significant inheritance, a charge he vehemently denied but which tarnished his reputation irreparably. This scandal, combined with his ongoing financial troubles, led to his eventual political and social downfall. By the end of his life, Budgell was largely estranged from political circles, and his once-promising career had descended into disarray.

In terms of political philosophy, Budgell’s beliefs were consistent with the Whig principles of his early career. He supported the constitutional monarchy and the rule of law, believing that power should be checked by institutions such as Parliament. His writings often reflect a concern with justice, liberty, and the public good, though his personal ambitions sometimes clouded his political judgement. Budgell’s later bitterness can be seen as a response to the political realities of his time, where power and influence were often dictated by personal connections and patronage rather than merit.

Budgell’s legacy as a politician is a mixed one. While he began his career with great promise, bolstered by his association with Addison and the Whigs, his later years were marked by scandal, financial ruin, and personal despair. His political downfall is emblematic of the dangers faced by those who relied too heavily on personal favour and patronage in the volatile world of 18th-century politics. Nonetheless, Budgell’s political writings, though overshadowed by his personal failings, offer valuable insights into the political debates of his time. His critiques of corruption and his defence of Whig principles remain important contributions to the political discourse of the early 18th century.

6) His Legacy

Eustace Budgell’s legacy is a complex and multifaceted one, shaped by his contributions to literature, his political involvement, and the personal controversies that clouded his later life. Though he is often remembered more for his scandals and tragic demise than for his intellectual achievements, Budgell’s work nonetheless holds an important place in the landscape of 18th-century English culture. His contributions to The Spectator and The Guardian, as well as his translations and moral essays, reflect a mind deeply engaged with the intellectual and social currents of his time. However, his legacy is inevitably tied to the personal failings and misfortunes that characterised his later years.

Budgell’s role in The Spectator and his association with its founding figures, Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, are crucial aspects of his literary legacy. As a regular contributor, Budgell helped shape the tone and content of one of the most influential publications of the early 18th century. His essays, which often focused on moral issues and social commentary, reflected the period’s broader concerns with virtue, civility, and the emerging middle-class values of the time. Though he is not as well-known as Addison or Steele, Budgell’s involvement in The Spectator remains a testament to his skills as an essayist and moral commentator. His essays offered practical advice on ethical living, and his style was marked by a seriousness that distinguished him from some of his more ironic or satirical contemporaries.

In the context of political thought, Budgell’s legacy is more complicated. His early alignment with the Whigs and his brief tenure as a Member of Parliament reflect his deep engagement with the political ideologies of his time. Budgell’s support for the Protestant succession and his advocacy for constitutional monarchy placed him within the Whig tradition of promoting parliamentary supremacy and limiting the powers of the monarchy. However, his later political writings, often characterised by bitterness and personal grievance, have somewhat overshadowed his earlier contributions. The accusations of forgery surrounding Dr. Tindal’s will and the public scandals that accompanied Budgell’s later years have left a stain on his political reputation. Yet, even in these darker moments, Budgell’s writings reveal an individual committed to exposing corruption and defending the moral principles that had guided his earlier political career.

Budgell’s engagement with classical literature also forms an essential part of his intellectual legacy. His translation of The Characters of Theophrastus was one of his most notable achievements, demonstrating his deep respect for classical antiquity and its moral teachings. Budgell’s belief in the enduring relevance of classical wisdom, particularly in shaping contemporary moral and civic life, was in keeping with the values of many Enlightenment thinkers. By bringing classical ideas to a wider English readership, Budgell contributed to the intellectual climate of the time, promoting a form of learning that was not only academic but also practical and ethical. His work in this area helped bridge the gap between ancient philosophical thought and the social concerns of his contemporaries.

However, Budgell’s personal legacy is marked by tragedy. His eventual financial ruin and social disgrace, culminating in his alleged suicide in 1737, have cast a long shadow over his reputation. The circumstances of his death, reportedly by drowning in the Thames, were seen by many as the ultimate sign of his failure to navigate the pressures of public life, ambition, and financial stability. This tragic end has often coloured the way Budgell is remembered, with his personal struggles sometimes overshadowing his intellectual and political contributions. The combination of ambition and personal downfall makes Budgell a cautionary figure in the annals of 18th-century British history, illustrating the precariousness of public reputation and the costs of social and political missteps.

Despite the controversies that surrounded his later life, Budgell’s legacy also includes his contribution to the development of the periodical essay. The essay form, which flourished in the early 18th century, was a crucial medium for engaging with contemporary issues, from politics to manners to morality. Budgell’s essays in The Spectator and The Guardian helped to elevate the form, offering readers insights into both the everyday concerns of society and the more philosophical questions of human existence. His writings contributed to a literary culture that valued reflection, discussion, and the exchange of ideas, helping to shape the intellectual climate of his time.

Moreover, Budgell’s legacy as a moralist continues to have relevance. His commitment to instructing his readers on matters of personal conduct and virtue resonates with the broader moralistic trends of the period. Though his personal life was marred by scandal, Budgell’s work as a moralist reflects the tension between his public teachings and his private struggles. This duality—between the man of virtue and the man of personal flaws—adds a layer of complexity to his legacy, inviting readers to reflect on the challenges of maintaining personal integrity in the face of public life’s demands.

Another aspect of Budgell’s legacy is the insight his life provides into the fragility of success and reputation in the 18th century. His rise and fall, from a promising young writer and politician to a figure of public disgrace, illustrate the volatility of public favour in a society where patronage, scandal, and personal connections often dictated success. Budgell’s story serves as a reminder of the precariousness of a life built on public opinion, especially in an era where the power of the press and public perception were becoming increasingly influential. His life and work offer a glimpse into the challenges faced by those who sought to navigate the often cutthroat world of 18th-century politics and literature.