Augustan Poetry

Definition

Augustan poetry refers to the body of literary work produced during the early 18th century, particularly in England, characterized by its adherence to classical forms and themes, as well as a focus on reason, order, and decorum. This period is often associated with the reign of Queen Anne and the political climate of the time, which influenced poets to emphasize satire, wit, and social commentary in their works.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustan poetry is often marked by its use of heroic couplets, which allowed poets to express complex ideas clearly and effectively.
2. Prominent poets of the Augustan era include Alexander Pope, John Dryden, and Jonathan Swift, whose works exemplify the characteristics of this literary period.
3. The Augustan poets frequently employed satire to address contemporary political and social issues, using humor as a means of critique.
4. Augustan poetry reflects the influence of Enlightenment ideals, prioritizing reason and rational thought over emotion and individualism.
5. The period is also noted for its exploration of themes such as morality, human nature, and the relationship between society and the individual.

Review Questions

• How did Augustan poetry reflect the political and social climate of early 18th century England?
  • Augustan poetry mirrored the political and social climate of early 18th century England by using satire to critique societal norms and politics. Poets like Alexander Pope and Jonathan Swift responded to contemporary issues with wit and humor, addressing topics such as corruption in government and moral decay. This alignment with Enlightenment ideals allowed poets to engage readers intellectually while commenting on the world around them.
• In what ways did neoclassicism influence the themes and forms found in Augustan poetry?
  • Neoclassicism significantly influenced Augustan poetry through its emphasis on classical forms and values such as order, clarity, and balance. Poets adopted structured poetic forms like the heroic couplet to convey their messages effectively while maintaining decorum. Themes often revolved around human nature, morality, and the importance of society over individualism, aligning with neoclassical principles.
• Evaluate the impact of Augustan poetry on subsequent literary movements in England.
  • Augustan poetry had a profound impact on subsequent literary movements by establishing standards for formality and intellectual rigor in literature. The use of satire influenced later writers such as the Romantics and Victorians, who adopted similar techniques but incorporated emotional depth and personal expression. Additionally, Augustan poets set a precedent for engaging with social issues through literature, paving the way for future literary explorations of morality, politics, and human experience.

Related terms

Satire: A literary technique that uses humor, irony, and exaggeration to criticize or mock individuals, societal norms, or institutions.

Neoclassicism:

An artistic movement that sought to revive the principles of classical antiquity, emphasizing clarity, order, and harmony in literature and art.

Heroic Couplet: A pair of rhymed lines in iambic pentameter that became a popular form in Augustan poetry, often used to convey ideas in a concise and polished manner.