Mackenzie's The Man of Feeling

Definition

Mackenzie's The Man of Feeling is a seminal novel published in 1771 that represents a shift from the rationality of Neoclassicism to the emotional depth of Sentimentalism. The story follows the character of Harley, a man deeply sensitive to the feelings of others, illustrating the value of empathy and compassion in human relationships. This work reflects the changing attitudes toward emotion and morality during a period where literature began to embrace the inner emotional life of individuals over strict adherence to reason and social decorum.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mackenzie's The Man of Feeling is often regarded as one of the early works that paved the way for the rise of the sentimental novel in English literature.
2. The protagonist, Harley, embodies the qualities of a 'man of feeling,' showcasing an intense awareness of the emotional states of those around him.
3. The novel critiques the rigid social norms of Neoclassicism by promoting a worldview that values emotional response and personal moral integrity.
4. Harley's experiences illustrate how sensitivity can lead to both profound connections and significant personal suffering, emphasizing the duality of being a 'man of feeling.'
5. The text reflects broader cultural shifts in 18th-century Britain, where ideas about individualism and emotional expression began to gain prominence in literature and society.

Review Questions

• How does Mackenzie's portrayal of Harley in The Man of Feeling challenge the principles of Neoclassicism?
  • Mackenzie's portrayal of Harley challenges Neoclassical principles by placing emotional sensitivity at the forefront, contrasting with Neoclassical ideals that prioritize reason and decorum. Harley's deep empathy for others highlights the importance of feelings in moral decision-making, suggesting that true virtue comes from understanding and connecting with human emotions rather than adhering strictly to social norms. This shift reflects a growing acceptance of individual emotional experiences as valuable components of moral behavior.
• In what ways does The Man of Feeling exemplify the transition to Sentimentalism within its narrative structure and character development?
  • The Man of Feeling exemplifies the transition to Sentimentalism through its narrative focus on Harley's emotional journey and moral dilemmas. Unlike earlier works that favored rational discourse, Mackenzie's novel emphasizes characters' internal emotional landscapes and their responses to societal expectations. Harley’s development showcases how his feelings drive his actions, illustrating a deeper engagement with sentimentality that reflects contemporary shifts toward valuing emotional authenticity over mere rationality in character interactions.
• Evaluate the impact of Mackenzie's The Man of Feeling on subsequent literature and its role in shaping modern concepts of empathy and emotional expression.
  • Mackenzie's The Man of Feeling had a profound impact on subsequent literature by establishing a framework for character-driven narratives focused on empathy and emotional expression. By prioritizing feelings and moral complexity over rationality, this novel inspired later authors to explore themes of sensitivity and ethical dilemmas in their own works. The emphasis on empathy within Mackenzie's narrative contributed to an evolving understanding of human connection, influencing not only literary movements but also broader societal attitudes toward emotional intelligence and personal relationships in modern literature.

Related terms

Sentimentalism: A literary movement that emphasizes emotion and the importance of feelings over reason, often highlighting compassion and moral goodness.

Neoclassicism: An artistic and literary movement characterized by a focus on order, logic, and restraint, often drawing inspiration from classical antiquity.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which is a central theme in Mackenzie's work as it illustrates the importance of emotional connections between individuals.