Birth and Family

Robert Burns was born on January 25, 1759, in Alloway, Ayrshire to a farming family

Education

Father and Tutors

Burns received a good education from his father and tutors such as John Murdoch

Financial Struggles

Despite his education, Burns' family faced financial struggles, leading him to take over the family farm at Mossgiel

Relationships

Burns had a tumultuous relationship with Jean Armour, who eventually became his wife, and had romantic entanglements with other women

Inspiration for Poetry

Burns' relationships with various women provided inspiration for much of his poetry

Use of Scots Language

Burns preserved the Scots language in his writing, which was becoming less popular during his time

First Collection

Poems, Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect

Burns' first collection, also known as the Kilmarnock Edition, was published in 1786 and received critical acclaim

Themes in Poetry

Religion

Burns often examined religion with a critical eye in his poetry

Love

Burns' romantic life deeply influenced his poetry, particularly his love poems

Influence on Scottish Culture

Burns' commitment to Scottish culture and use of the Scots language played a significant role in preserving Scottish identity and literary traditions

Celebrations and Traditions

Burns Night

Burns' legacy is celebrated annually on January 25th with recitations of his poetry and traditional Scottish cuisine

Auld Lang Syne

Burns' song has become an international symbol of friendship and is commonly sung at New Year's Eve festivities

Death and Family

Burns died at the age of 37, leaving behind his wife and children, and his legacy as a poet and songwriter continues to endure