Who is considered the father of modern English essay writing?
Show Hint
- Francis Bacon
- Samuel Johnson
- William Hazlitt
- Charles Lamb
The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Overview of the essay's development.
The essay as a literary form is attributed to many authors, but Francis Bacon is widely regarded as the father of modern English essay writing. He is known for his concise, aphoristic style that brought a new level of clarity and wisdom to the genre. His work laid the foundation for later essayists.
Step 2: Evaluating the options.
(A) Francis Bacon is credited with the development of the modern English essay with his Essays (1597), focusing on themes of philosophy, ethics, and human nature.
(B) Samuel Johnson is known for his Essays, but he is more famous for his dictionary and his contributions to lexicography.
(C) William Hazlitt and (D) Charles Lamb were influential essayists, but their styles evolved later, and they were more focused on personal essays and literary criticism.
Final Answer: Option \( \boxed{{(A) Francis Bacon}} \) is correct.
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