Robert Chaloner (priest)

Robert Chaloner (fl. 1584-1621) was an English clergyman and translator, primarily known for his Roman Catholic writings and activities during a period of religious tension in England.

Details of his early life are scarce. He appears to have been part of a recusant family, maintaining their Roman Catholic faith in secret despite the established Anglican Church. Chaloner was educated abroad, likely at one of the English Catholic seminaries established on the continent, such as the English College, Douai, or the English College, Rome. These colleges were vital for training priests to minister to the Catholic population in England.

Chaloner is primarily remembered for his translations of religious works from Latin into English, intended to provide spiritual guidance and instruction to English Catholics. His translations were often published anonymously or under pseudonyms, due to the legal restrictions placed on Catholic printing and dissemination of religious materials in England at the time. These translations included works of piety, devotion, and polemics, aiming to strengthen the faith of English Catholics and defend the Catholic Church against Protestant criticism.

He is also associated with supporting the clandestine Catholic press, aiding in the circulation of Catholic literature within England. Given the penalties associated with practicing Catholicism openly, his activities involved significant risk.

The precise dates of his birth and death remain unknown, and biographical details are limited. Further research is required to fully ascertain the extent of his literary output and his involvement in the Catholic underground during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. However, his contribution to maintaining Catholic faith in England through translation and support of Catholic publications is recognized.