Meaning: The quote "Were I not a king, I would be a university man" is attributed to King James I of England, also known as James VI of Scotland. James I was the first monarch to rule both England and Scotland, succeeding the last Tudor monarch, Elizabeth I, in 1603. He was known for his interest in intellectual pursuits and his patronage of the arts and sciences.

In this quote, King James I expresses an affinity for academia and a desire for intellectual pursuits. It reflects his passion for learning and education, even in the midst of his royal duties. The quote suggests that if he were not born into royalty, he would have chosen a life dedicated to scholarly endeavors.

James I's interest in academia is evident in his patronage of the arts and sciences during his reign. He sponsored the translation of the Bible into English, which resulted in the creation of the King James Version, a significant contribution to religious scholarship and English literature. His support for the translation project aimed to make the scriptures accessible to a wider audience and to promote scholarship and learning.

Furthermore, James I established the first British colony in the Americas, Jamestown, in 1607. His vision for the colony included the establishment of a university to promote education and intellectual growth in the New World. Although his plans for a university in Jamestown did not come to fruition during his lifetime, his aspiration for educational advancement demonstrates his commitment to promoting learning and knowledge beyond the confines of his royal duties.

As a patron of the arts, James I also supported playwrights and poets, contributing to the flourishing of English literature during the Elizabethan and Jacobean eras. His court was a center of literary and intellectual activity, attracting prominent writers such as William Shakespeare and Ben Jonson. The quote "Were I not a king, I would be a university man" reflects James I's appreciation for the arts and his recognition of the value of education and scholarship in society.

In addition to his support for education and the arts, James I was known for his intellectual curiosity and scholarly pursuits. He wrote several works on topics ranging from political theory to witchcraft, demonstrating his interest in diverse areas of knowledge. His book "Daemonologie" delved into the supernatural and witchcraft, reflecting his engagement with intellectual debates of his time.

Overall, the quote "Were I not a king, I would be a university man" encapsulates King James I's commitment to education, scholarship, and intellectual pursuits. It highlights his belief in the value of learning and his dedication to promoting knowledge and culture during his reign. Despite the demands of his royal position, James I's affinity for academia and his contributions to the arts and sciences left a lasting legacy in the realms of education and intellectual inquiry.