William Edmondstoune Aytoun | |
|---|---|
 Engraving by J.C. Armytage from the bust of Aytoun by Scottish sculptor Patric Park | |
| Born | 21 June 1813 21 Abercromby Place, Edinburgh |
| Died | 4 August 1865 (aged 52) Blackhills, by Lhanbryde, Moray |
| Resting place | Dean Cemetery, Edinburgh |
| Occupation | Writer to the Signet (1835) Advocate (1840) Professor of Rhetoric and Belles Lettres, Edinburgh University (1845–65) Sheriff, Orkney & Shetland (1852–65) |
| Education | Edinburgh Academy (1824-8) |
| Alma mater | Edinburgh University |
| Notable works | Lays of The Scottish Cavaliers (1848) |
| Spouse | Jane Emily Wilson (died 1859) Fearnie Jemima Kinnear (m. 1863) (died 1904) |
| Children | No issue |
| Relatives | Father-in-law: Professor John Wilson Brother-in-law: John Thomson Gordon |
William Edmondstoune "W. E." Aytoun FRSE (21 June 1813 – 4 August 1865) was a Scottish poet, lawyer by training, and professor of rhetoric and belles lettres at the University of Edinburgh. He published poetry, translation, prose fiction, criticism and satire and was a lifelong contributor to the Edinburgh literary periodical Blackwood's Magazine. He was also a collector of Scottish ballads.
In the early 1850s, Professor Aytoun lent his name as a supporter of the fledgling National Association for the Vindication of Scottish Rights. His distinctive legacy as a teacher has led to him being called the 'first modern professor of English Literature'.[1]
- ^ "William Edmonstoune Aytoun". Scottish Poetry Library. Retrieved 5 March 2024.