Sedley, Charles (1639–1701)

English poet and dramatist. He wrote five plays, including the comedies The Mulberry Garden 1668 and Bellamira 1687, and the tragedy Antony and Cleopatra 1677; and poems and songs, including ‘Phyllis is my only joy’.

Sedley was born in Aylesford, Kent. He studied at Oxford, and at Charles II's court became one of the most popular members. His daughter Catherine Sedley (1657–1717) became the mistress of James II, who created her countess of Dorchester.