Peter Mark Roget

Peter Mark Roget plaque, Edinburgh University

Roget P M

Peter Mark Roget (18 January 1779 – 12 September 1869) was a British physician, natural theologian, and lexicographer, best known for publishing the Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases. His work on the thesaurus arose from his interest in lexicography and stemmed from his personal hobby of list-making. Roget's Thesaurus is a historically significant text, influencing the way in which English speakers and writers have chosen their words for over a century.

Early Life and Education

Peter Mark Roget was born in London, the son of a Swiss clergyman. The Roget family had a background filled with intellectual achievements, and Peter was no exception. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in the natural sciences. Roget attended the University of Edinburgh, where he received a medical degree. His education played a crucial role in shaping his analytical approach to the study of words and their meanings.

Medical Career

After completing his studies, Roget pursued a career in medicine. He worked in various capacities, including as a private tutor, physician, and lecturer. His medical career was distinguished, but it was his contributions to literature and lexicography that would leave a lasting legacy. Despite his success in medicine, Roget's passion for words and their organization was evident throughout his life.

Development of the Thesaurus

The idea for a thesaurus came to Roget in 1805, but it was not until his retirement from professional life that he devoted himself fully to this project. The Thesaurus of English Words and Phrases was first published in 1852. Unlike a dictionary, which provides definitions, Roget's Thesaurus classified words into groups of synonyms and antonyms, organized into categories of thought. This innovative approach allowed users to explore the language in a new way, making it an invaluable resource for writers, speakers, and anyone interested in the nuances of the English language.

Legacy

Peter Mark Roget's contribution to English literature and lexicography was immense. His thesaurus went through numerous editions during his lifetime and continues to be updated and published today. Roget's work on the thesaurus reflected his belief in the power of words and their careful selection to express ideas more precisely and vividly.

Roget also made contributions to the field of optics and invented the logarithmic slide rule, demonstrating his wide-ranging interests and intellect. His work in the natural sciences, though less known, was significant in the context of the 19th century's scientific advancements.

Death and Memoriam

Peter Mark Roget passed away on 12 September 1869 at the age of 90. His legacy endures through his thesaurus, which remains a staple reference work in English-speaking households, libraries, and educational institutions around the world. Roget's dedication to the organization and classification of words has made a lasting impact on the study and use of the English language.