Charles Sackville

Charles Sackville, 6th Earl of Dorset and 1st Earl of Middlesex (1638–1706), was a prominent English courtier, poet, and patron of the arts during the Restoration period. Born into an aristocratic family, his education took place at the prestigious Westminster School followed by Christ Church, Oxford. Sackville's witty demeanor and literary talents quickly established him within the cultured circles of royal society. He is perhaps best remembered for his close association with the literary elite of his time, including figures such as John Dryden and Sir Charles Sedley.

Sackville played a pivotal role in King Charles II's court, becoming a member of the Privy Council and eventually obtaining the title of Lord Chamberlain, a position of considerable influence. He was an ardent supporter of the arts, lending his patronage to many emerging poets and playwrights. His own poetic contributions include "To All You Ladies Now on Land," a work written during the Second Dutch War, which reflected his literary prowess and his experiences as a naval commander.

Despite his sometimes scandalous lifestyle, marked by bouts of debauchery, Sackville's legacy endures through his contributions to English letters and his unwavering support for the artistic community of his era. His life encapsulates the vibrancy and complexity of the Restoration period.