Alexander Carlyle


(Jupiter Carlyle)

1722 - 1805

Clergyman. Born in Prestonpans, Carlyle was educated at the Universities of Edinburgh, Glasgow and Leiden. Known as 'Jupiter Carlyle' because of his imposing stature, he served as the minister at Inveresk (East Lothian) from 1748 until his death. Carlyle was part of the social and intellectual circles of Edinburgh which drove the Scottish Enlightenment. He mixed with the likes of philosopher David Hume (1711-76), sociologist Adam Ferguson (1723 - 1816), dramatist John Home (1722 - 1808) and historian William Robertson (1721-93). With the latter he led the 'broad church' movement within the Church of Scotland. He served as Moderator of the General Assembly of the Kirk in 1770 and was appointed Dean of the Chapel Royal in 1789. His autobiography, which was published in 1860, provides remarkable insight into life and the events of 18th C. Scotland.


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