Augustan Literature

Definition

Augustan literature refers to the body of English literature produced during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, marked by a focus on satire, social commentary, and a return to classical ideals following the Restoration. This period is characterized by a blend of wit and elegance, reflecting the political and social climate of the time, as well as an emphasis on reason and order in response to the chaos of previous eras.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustan literature is often associated with prominent writers like Alexander Pope, Jonathan Swift, and John Dryden, who employed satire to address social and political issues.
2. The period is marked by a revival of interest in classical literature and forms, leading to an emphasis on structure and decorum in poetry and prose.
3. Key works from this era include Pope's 'The Rape of the Lock' and Swift's 'Gulliver's Travels', both of which use satire to critique contemporary society.
4. Augustan literature reflects the tensions of its time, including debates over politics, religion, and gender roles, capturing a society grappling with change.
5. The term 'Augustan' itself draws a parallel between this literary era and the reign of Emperor Augustus in Rome, known for its cultural flourishing.

Review Questions

• How did the political climate following the Restoration influence the themes found in Augustan literature?
  • The political climate after the Restoration created a backdrop for Augustan literature that was rife with social tensions and a desire for stability. Writers responded to these conditions by employing satire to critique political corruption and societal norms. This reflection of current events made literature both relevant and engaging, allowing authors to address pressing issues while also providing entertainment through their wit.
• In what ways did Augustan writers employ classical ideals in their work, and how did this influence their literary style?
  • Augustan writers embraced classical ideals by focusing on order, clarity, and rational thought in their literary works. This influence is evident in their structured verse forms, balanced arguments, and moral lessons drawn from classical sources. By modeling their writing after ancient authors, they aimed to elevate English literature and create works that were both aesthetically pleasing and intellectually rigorous.
• Critically assess how the use of satire in Augustan literature serves both artistic expression and social critique within its historical context.
  • The use of satire in Augustan literature acts as a powerful tool for both artistic expression and social critique, enabling writers to comment on their society while entertaining readers. This dual purpose is particularly significant within its historical context; satire allowed authors like Swift and Pope to challenge the status quo without facing outright censorship. Through humor and irony, they exposed flaws in politics and human behavior, prompting readers to reflect on their own beliefs and actions in a rapidly changing world.

Related terms

Restoration:

The Restoration refers to the period in English history when Charles II returned to the throne in 1660, marking the end of the Interregnum and the establishment of a new cultural and political era.

Satire: Satire is a literary technique used to criticize or mock individuals, institutions, or societal norms through humor, irony, or exaggeration, prevalent in Augustan literature.

Classical Ideals: Classical ideals refer to the principles derived from ancient Greek and Roman art and literature, emphasizing harmony, proportion, and rationality, which influenced Augustan writers.