A. D. (Alfred Denis) Godley

Born in County Cavan, Ireland, in 1856, Alfred Denis Godley was educated at Harrow and Balliol College, Oxford. He went on to become a fellow and tutor of Magdalen College, and built a long career as a respected classical scholar.

Godley wrote on the ancient world, translated classical authors, and also became famous for humorous poetry and lively occasional verse. From 1910 to 1920 he served as Oxford's Public Orator, a role that called for polished Latin and a sharp literary touch when presenting honorary degree recipients.

That mix of scholarship and wit makes him an appealing figure for modern readers. He could be learned without being dry, and his writing suggests someone who took literature seriously while still enjoying its playful side.