William Beckford
From QueerBio.com
Country
Great Britain
Birth - Death
1760 - 1844
Occupation
Writer
Description
Once the wealthiest man in England (due to inherited sugar plantations), associated with many painters, writers, and artists. Dilettante and socialite, notable for constructing Fonthill Abbey. Noted writing is 'Vathek', a story about a monarch as impious as he is voluptuous, who builds a tower so high that from it he can survey all the kingdoms of the world. Notable for an early affair with his cousin, William Courtenay Earl of Devon, which forced him to flee when discovered.
