Paul Hentzner

Paul Hentzner was a German lawyer and traveler, best known for his detailed account of his journeys through England and other parts of Europe during the late Elizabethan era. Born in Crossen, in the Margraviate of Brandenburg, Hentzner took on the role of tutor to a young Silesian nobleman in 1596, which led to a three-year tour across Switzerland, France, England, and Italy. His experiences during this period provided rich insights into the cultures and societies of the time, particularly in England, where he documented the customs, architecture, and notable figures he encountered. In 1612, Hentzner published his travel narrative, Itinerarium Germaniae, Galliae, Angliae, Italiae, cum Indice Locorum, Rerum atque Verborum, in Latin. This work not only served as a travelogue but also as a significant historical document, capturing the essence of the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The section detailing England was later translated into English by Richard Bentley and published by Horace Walpole, further cementing Hentzner's legacy. His writings are valued for their firsthand perspective on the era, providing a glimpse into the life and culture of England during a pivotal time in its history.