Life Summary: Born in Dublin Ireland to attorney Richard Steele and Elinor Symes. A Protestant of genteel standing, he attended Charterhouse School, where he met lifelong friend Joseph Addison. He was also educated at Christ Church and Merton College in Oxford. Steele served in the war against France, eventually serving the household of Prince George of Denmark. He became a Whig, joining Parliament in 1713; at times, his writing effected his political career. He was knighted in 1714, and took charge of Drury Lane Theatre. Steele fathered two children, losing both wives before his death in 1729.
Major Works: The Christian Hero, The Funeral, Contributions to The Tatler and Spectator.
Place in society/context: Steele was born into Irish gentility; as a result, he was given many opportunities to rise in the social hierarchy. Relationships with royalty led to his knighthood and eventual taking over of Drury Lane.
As a member of Parliament, Steele' political influence at times effected his writing. At one point he had to close one of the newspapers, though he opened another later.
18th Century Lit. Importance: Steele's political life as a Whig allowed him to reach a larger with his writings. At times, he was forced to shut down periodicals as they had become unpopular with the ruling party. Steele is noted to be a brilliant essayist, developing the fictional character Isaac Bickerstaff for his writings. The Tatler and Spectator became well-known within the coffeehouse culture, and their circulation became the best way to catch up on the news and gossip of the town.