Augustan Poetry

Definition

Augustan poetry refers to the body of literary work produced during the early 18th century in England, characterized by its emphasis on reason, wit, and formal elegance. It emerged during the reign of Queen Anne and continued into the early Georgian era, reflecting the values of the Enlightenment and the influence of classical literature. This period is notably marked by poets like Alexander Pope, who utilized satire and heroic couplets to comment on society and human nature.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augustan poetry is often associated with key figures such as Alexander Pope, John Dryden, and Jonathan Swift, who exemplified its themes and styles.
2. The poetry from this period frequently employed satire to critique contemporary society, politics, and morals.
3. Augustan poets often embraced neoclassical ideals, valuing reason and order over emotion and chaos.
4. The use of heroic couplets became a defining feature of Augustan poetry, allowing for a structured and rhythmic expression of complex ideas.
5. The period saw the rise of public literary culture, with poetry being published widely and engaging with current events and social issues.

Review Questions

• How did the themes and styles of Augustan poetry reflect the cultural values of its time?
  • Augustan poetry showcased the cultural values of the early 18th century through its emphasis on reason, wit, and formal elegance. Poets like Alexander Pope utilized satire to engage with societal issues, demonstrating a keen awareness of human nature and morality. This reflective approach mirrored the broader Enlightenment ideals that prioritized rational thought over emotional expression, marking a significant shift in literary priorities.
• What role did satire play in the works of prominent Augustan poets, and how did it influence their reception?
  • Satire was central to the works of Augustan poets as it allowed them to critique societal norms, politics, and individual behaviors through humor and irony. Poets like Swift and Pope used satire not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and discussion among their readers. This approach not only solidified their positions as influential writers of their time but also shaped public discourse by encouraging audiences to reflect critically on their world.
• Evaluate how Augustan poetry set the stage for later literary movements, particularly in terms of form and thematic focus.
  • Augustan poetry laid the groundwork for subsequent literary movements by establishing a preference for structure and thematic depth that resonated through later periods such as Romanticism. The use of heroic couplets and satirical techniques influenced poets who followed, emphasizing both formality in structure and a reflective exploration of human experience. As writers began to challenge neoclassical ideals in favor of emotion and individualism during the Romantic era, they still retained elements of Augustan precision and wit, showcasing a literary evolution rather than a complete departure from earlier styles.

Related terms

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

Heroic Couplet: A pair of rhymed lines in iambic pentameter that is a common verse form in Augustan poetry, particularly used by poets like Alexander Pope.

Neoclassicism:

An artistic and literary movement that drew inspiration from the classical art and literature of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing order, clarity, and harmony.