Robert Bolt author page

Robert Bolt biography

Robert Bolt was an English playwright and screenwriter known for his work in theatre and film during the mid-20th century. He studied at Manchester Grammar School and later attended the University of Manchester. After completing his education, Bolt worked as a schoolteacher before turning to writing full-time.

Bolt’s early plays include Flowering Cherry (1957) and The Tiger and the Horse (1960). He achieved widespread recognition with A Man for All Seasons (1960), a play depicting the final years of Sir Thomas More. The play was first staged in London and later adapted for Broadway, earning critical acclaim for its exploration of conscience and authority.

In addition to his stage work, Bolt wrote several notable screenplays. He adapted A Man for All Seasons for the screen in 1966, and the film won multiple Academy Awards. Bolt also wrote the screenplays for Lawrence of Arabia (1962) and Doctor Zhivago (1965), both directed by David Lean. His collaboration with Lean continued with Ryan’s Daughter (1970).

Bolt’s writing is characterised by its focus on historical and moral themes. He received several awards for his work, including the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for A Man for All Seasons in 1967.