Life Summary: Born in Barnstaple England, Gay received a grammar school education. Orphaned at a young age, he traveled to London to become an apprentice of a silk merchant. Dissatisfied with the work, he became a secretary for Lady Monmouth. He joined theater groups, most notably the Scribelus. Gay had many famous friends, including Alexander Pope andJonathan Swift. The latter would help him to launch an ill-fated political career. Gay had many patrons but never became rich; he died unmarried after a brief illness.
Major works: The Beggar's Opera, Polly, The Present State of Wit
Place in life/social context: Gay attended grammar school under the guidance of his uncle. He was not a member of the upper class, relying heavily on their goodwill. As a writer he could move more fluidly between the social classes, even signing his name to his work.
18th century Lit importance: Gay's contribution to the comedic cannon of writing commented on the differences between the social classes. As an outsider of each, his perspective sheds light on 18th century humor.