Auteur: Robert B. Brough

Robert Barnabas Brough (1828–1860) was a British literary figure of the mid-19th century, whose contributions included journalism, poetry, and theater. Notably, he is recognized for his satirical biography, « The Life of Sir John Falstaff » (1857-1858), where he humorously chronicles the life of one of William Shakespeare »s most beloved comedic characters from the Henriad plays. Brough »s portrayal of Falstaff goes beyond Shakespeare »s work, inventing a fictitious biography for the character that playfully explores themes of heroism, vanity, and human folly. His literary style is marked by wit and a penchant for parody, reflecting the satirical edge that characterized much of his writing. Brough »s Falstaff may be considered a precursor to the mock-heroic biographies, a genre that gained popularity following his time. Despite his promising literary career, Brough »s life was cut short at the age of 32; yet, his work lives on as a testament to the vibrant literary scene of Victorian England. His ability to blend humor with literary criticism remains an enlightening example of 19th-century British satire and continues to offer insights into the era »s cultural and social nuances.