Alfred, Lord Tennyson was born on August 6, 1809, in Somersby, Lincolnshire, England. He was the fourth of twelve children in the family of George Clayton Tennyson, a clergyman, and Elizabeth Fytche. Tennyson began writing poetry at a young age, influenced by his family's literary interests. In 1827, Tennyson enrolled at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he joined the secret society known as the Cambridge Apostles. During his time at Cambridge, he formed a close friendship with fellow poet Arthur Hallam, who became engaged to Tennyson's sister, Emily. This period was significant for Tennyson's development as a poet, leading to the publication of his early works. Tennyson's poetry gained prominence, and in 1850, he was appointed Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom, succeeding William Wordsworth. He held this position until his death in 1892, making him the longest-serving Poet Laureate. His works, such as In Memoriam A.H.H. and Idylls of the King, have left a lasting impact on English literature.
