Poet Laureate

A Poet Laureate is a poet officially appointed by a government and often expected to compose poems for state occasions and other government events.

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The term has in England for centuries been the title of the official poet of the monarch, appointed for life since the time of Charles II by letters patent, and before that less formally. Recently the office has been held only for a ten-year term. Its holder still receives a salary as a member of the Royal Household, but since 1843 has had no specific poetic duties.

Related Topics:
England - Monarch - Charles II - Letters patent - Royal Household - 1843

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Holders of similar positions in other countries have been honoured with similar titles. Poets laureate are appointed by many countries, some US states and the UN. In Britain there is also a Children's Laureate.

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