Thomas Southwell (priest)

Thomas Southwell (1561 – February 21, 1595) was an English Jesuit priest and poet. He is also known as Saint Thomas Southwell, a title conferred upon him following his canonization in 1970 as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales.

Born in Norfolk, Southwell was educated on the continent, entering the Society of Jesus in 1578. He trained primarily in Rome. He returned to England in 1586 during the Elizabethan era, a time when Catholicism was outlawed. He served as a missionary, secretly ministering to Catholics in a climate of persecution. He spent a significant portion of his time as chaplain to the Countess of Arundel at Arundel Castle.

Southwell's literary contributions are notable for their spiritual depth and sophisticated use of language. His poetry, written in English, reflects his intense religious conviction and explores themes of love, devotion, and martyrdom. Notable works include "The Burning Babe," "Saint Peter's Complaint," and "Mary Magdalen's Funeral Tears." His writings were widely circulated in manuscript form during his lifetime and published posthumously, becoming popular amongst both Catholic and Protestant readers. His poetic style is generally considered to be part of the Metaphysical tradition.

Southwell was arrested in 1592, betrayed by a former acquaintance. He was subjected to torture and imprisonment in the Tower of London for three years, during which time he continued to write. Accused of treason, he was eventually tried and condemned. He was hanged, drawn, and quartered at Tyburn on February 21, 1595. He was beatified in 1929 and canonized in 1970. He is remembered as a significant figure in English Catholic history and a poet of considerable talent.