Wise words of Alexander Pope

Be not the first by whom the new is tried, 

Nor yet the last to lay the old aside.

Lines from Alexander Pope, who was born in London on this day, May 21, 1688.

He was born to Catholic parents.

Pope's education was affected by laws enacted against Catholics. Catholics were not allowed teach, attend university or hold public office at the time.

They were barred from teaching, attending university and voting. They were also forbidden from holding public office on penalty of imprisonment.

Pope was taught to read by an aunt. He went to two Catholic schools in London. Such schools were illegal but were often tolerated in some places.