Sir Thomas Browne (; 19 October 1605 – 19 October 1682) was an English
polymath and author of varied works which reveal his wide learning in diverse fields including science and medicine, religion and the
esoteric. Browne's writings display a deep curiosity towards the
natural world, influenced by the
scientific revolution of
Baconian enquiry. Browne's literary works are permeated by references to
Classical and
Biblical sources as well as the idiosyncrasies of his own personality. Although often described as suffering from
melancholia, his writings are also characterised by wit and subtle humour, while his literary style is varied, according to genre, resulting in a rich, unique
prose which ranges from rough notebook observations to polished
Baroque eloquence.