Did you know that the Oliver Goldsmith Statue here at Trinity College has a secret? It is not just a bronze figure. It is a portal to the past. It allows us to glimpse the life of a remarkable Anglo-Irish writer.
This is the Oliver Goldsmith Statue. It commemorates the life of Oliver Goldsmith. He was a poet, novelist, and playwright. He graced the halls of Trinity College.
Oliver Goldsmith graduated from Trinity in 1749. He appears studious and contemplative in this statue. The statue was erected in 1866. It is made of electro-typed copper-bronze. This casting method creates a perfect metal coating. Moritz Von Jacobi invented it in 1838. Many contemporary sculptors quickly adopted it.
Look closely at the Oliver Goldsmith Statue. Notice the pen in his hand. See the book he is engrossed in. Is he editing his own work? Or perhaps he is finding inspiration from another writer? That’s the question. Goldsmith was known for both original masterpieces and copious hack work. He churned out copy for a growing literary market. What set him apart was his ability to pen masterpieces across different genres.
John Henry Foley designed the Oliver Goldsmith Statue. Foley was known for capturing the individuality of his subjects. He also designed the statues of Grattan and Edmund Burke here. Goldsmith appears studious. This is a fitting portrayal of the author of ‘She Stoops to Conquer’. He also wrote ‘The Vicar of Wakefield’.
The Oliver Goldsmith Statue and the Edmund Burke statue form an entrance ensemble. These two prominent alumni flank the main arch. The detail and skill in its execution is of artistic merit. The granite plinth connects the statue with the surrounding buildings.
Goldsmith had a tough time here at Trinity. He arrived as a sizar. That meant he received financial assistance in return for chores. He was a target for his peers’ disdain. He was obliged to wear red caps. This made his receipt of charity public.
One story tells of Goldsmith holding a party. His tutor, Dr. Theaker Wilder, shut it down. An altercation ensued. Wilder knocked Goldsmith to the floor. Goldsmith stormed out of Trinity. He intended to emigrate to America. He only had one shilling. His brother persuaded him to return.
Goldsmith’s time at Trinity was not without diversion. He became involved in theatrical circles. He also developed a love for gaming. This addiction would trouble him throughout his life.
After Trinity, Goldsmith wandered through Europe. This journey inspired his poem ‘The Traveller’. He eventually settled in London. He became a prolific writer. He joined literary circles. He befriended Samuel Johnson.
Goldsmith’s most famous works include ‘The Deserted Village’. It also includes ‘The Vicar of Wakefield’. His play ‘She Stoops to Conquer’ remains popular today. It is based on an embarrassing incident from his life. He mistook a landowner’s house for an inn.
The Oliver Goldsmith Statue reminds us of his legacy. He left his mark on literature and theatre. He overcame adversity to achieve greatness.
So, as you stand before the Oliver Goldsmith Statue. Remember the man behind the bronze. Remember his struggles and his triumphs. Remember his contributions to the world of literature. Let the Oliver Goldsmith Statue inspire you to pursue your dreams. Let it inspire you to overcome any obstacles in your path.