Thomas Browne was a 17th-century English writer and physician, known for his unique blend of science and philosophy. Born in 1605 in London, he studied at Oxford University and later became a doctor in Norwich. His works often explored themes of mortality, nature, and the human experience. Browne's most famous writings include Religio Medici, a reflection on faith and medicine, and Urn-Burial, which contemplates death and the afterlife. His style is characterized by elaborate prose and a deep curiosity about the world, making him a significant figure in early modern literature and thought.