Matthew Arnold

Definition

Matthew Arnold was a 19th-century English poet, cultural critic, and educationalist known for his influential ideas on literature, culture, and society. He is best recognized for his contributions to literary criticism and the concept of 'culture' as a means to understand the moral and social issues of his time, connecting literature to broader cultural contexts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Matthew Arnold is often referred to as a key figure in Victorian literature and is known for his poetry, including works like 'Dover Beach' and 'The Scholar-Gipsy.'
2. He emphasized the importance of culture as a means to achieve moral improvement and social progress, arguing that literature should serve as a reflection of society.
3. Arnold was a strong advocate for education reform, believing that access to culture and literature was essential for the development of individuals and society.
4. His critical essays, such as 'Culture and Anarchy,' explore the tension between culture and industrial society, advocating for a balance that promotes both moral values and artistic expression.
5. Arnold's ideas laid the groundwork for later literary theory, influencing critics and writers who sought to understand the relationship between literature and society.

Review Questions

• How did Matthew Arnold's views on culture influence his approach to literature and criticism?
  • Matthew Arnold believed that culture played a crucial role in shaping moral values and social progress. He argued that literature should not only entertain but also serve as a vehicle for exploring societal issues. By promoting a higher understanding of culture through literature, Arnold aimed to encourage individuals to engage with ethical questions, ultimately leading to a more enlightened society.
• Discuss the significance of Arnold's essay 'Culture and Anarchy' in understanding his critique of Victorian society.
  • In 'Culture and Anarchy,' Matthew Arnold critiques the rapid industrialization and social change of Victorian society. He contrasts 'culture'—which he sees as a means of moral improvement—with 'anarchy,' representing the disarray and moral decay resulting from unchecked progress. This essay highlights Arnold's belief that a deeper engagement with literature and culture is essential to address the challenges posed by modernization, thereby fostering a more cohesive and ethical community.
• Evaluate how Matthew Arnold's literary criticism laid the foundation for future discussions about the role of literature in society.
  • Matthew Arnold's literary criticism emphasized the interconnectedness between literature, culture, and societal values. By arguing that literature should reflect moral truths and cultural ideals, he opened up discussions about how literature can influence social norms and individual behavior. His perspectives influenced later critics who continued to explore these connections, establishing a framework for understanding literature not just as an art form but also as an instrument for social change and ethical reflection.

Related terms

Cultural Criticism: A form of literary analysis that examines cultural texts and practices in their social and political contexts, focusing on the interplay between literature and culture.

Higher Criticism: An approach to the study of biblical texts that emphasizes historical context, authorship, and the development of religious thought, often reflecting broader critical methodologies in literature.

Victorian Literature: Literature produced during the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901), marked by themes of social reform, morality, and the complexities of modern life.