Tobias Smollett was a Scottish novelist and playwright born in 1721. He is best known for his works such as The Adventures of Roderick Random and The Expedition of Humphry Clinker, which are celebrated for their vivid characters and satirical style. Smollett's writing often reflects his experiences as a sailor and his observations of 18th-century society. In addition to his novels, Smollett was also a historian and wrote a number of essays and critiques. He contributed to the literary scene of his time and was a contemporary of other notable writers like Henry Fielding and Daniel Defoe. Smollett passed away in 1771, leaving a lasting impact on English literature.