|  Laurence Sterne (November 24, 1713 - March 18, 1768) was an Irish-born English novelist and an Anglican clergyman. He is best known for his novels  The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman , and  A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy ; but he also published sermons, wrote memoirs, and was involved in local politics. Sterne died in London after years of fighting tuberculosis. |