Matthew Arnold

Definition

Matthew Arnold was a prominent Victorian poet, essayist, and cultural critic known for his exploration of the relationship between culture and society. His work reflects the tension between the rapid industrialization of England and the need for moral and artistic values, positioning him as a bridge between Romanticism and Victorian thought.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Arnold was not only a poet but also served as an inspector of schools, which influenced his views on education and culture.
2. His criticism often emphasized the importance of poetry as a means to explore deeper truths about human existence.
3. Arnold's work was heavily influenced by the scientific and philosophical developments of his time, particularly Darwin's theory of evolution.
4. He believed in the necessity of balancing emotion with intellect in art, advocating for poetry that had both aesthetic value and moral depth.
5. Arnold's idea of 'touchstones' referred to exemplary works of literature that could be used to judge other literary creations based on their ability to express universal truths.

Review Questions

• How does Matthew Arnold's work reflect the concerns of his time regarding the impact of industrialization on society?
  • Matthew Arnold's work captures the anxieties surrounding rapid industrialization by emphasizing the need for moral and cultural values amidst social upheaval. He believed that as society shifted towards materialism and science, literature and art should respond with deeper insights into human experience. His poetry often serves as a critique of contemporary society, urging a return to ethical standards and artistic integrity.
• Analyze how Arnold's views on education influenced his literary output and criticism during the Victorian era.
  • Arnold's role as an inspector of schools profoundly shaped his views on education, which he saw as pivotal for cultivating a well-rounded society. In his writings, he advocated for an educational system that not only imparted knowledge but also fostered moral and cultural development. This belief is reflected in his poetry and essays, where he often critiques contemporary educational practices and emphasizes the need for literature that enlightens and uplifts.
• Evaluate how Matthew Arnold's concept of 'touchstones' contributes to our understanding of literary value in both his time and today.
  • Matthew Arnold's concept of 'touchstones' allows for an evaluation of literary works based on their capacity to convey universal truths. This idea encourages a critical approach to literature that transcends individual tastes or popular trends, suggesting that certain texts possess intrinsic qualities that reflect profound human experiences. Today, this perspective remains relevant as it invites ongoing discussions about what constitutes literary excellence and how we can assess works against enduring standards.

Related terms

Cultural Criticism: A method of analysis that examines the interplay between culture, society, and literature, often assessing how cultural values shape human experience.

Victorian Poetry: A literary movement characterized by its focus on moral themes, social issues, and the complexities of human experience during the reign of Queen Victoria.

Dover Beach: One of Matthew Arnold's most famous poems, which reflects on the loss of faith in a modern world and explores themes of love, doubt, and the search for meaning.