The Restoration

Definition

The Restoration refers to the period in English history marked by the return of Charles II to the throne in 1660 after the collapse of the Commonwealth. This era is significant as it brought about a revival of monarchy and traditional governance, resulting in substantial political and social changes, including the re-establishment of the Church of England and a flourishing cultural life characterized by literature, theater, and the arts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Restoration began in 1660 with Charles II's return from exile, which ended a decade of republican rule under Oliver Cromwell's Commonwealth.
2. The period saw significant advancements in literature and the arts, with writers like John Dryden and Aphra Behn emerging as prominent figures.
3. The Restoration also reinstated the monarchy's authority, leading to tensions between royalists and parliamentarians that would shape future political dynamics.
4. Public theaters reopened during this time after being closed during the Puritanical rule, sparking a cultural renaissance in England.
5. The era was marked by shifting social norms, including more open expressions of sexuality and a growing focus on individualism.

Review Questions

• How did the Restoration impact the political landscape in England after the Commonwealth?
  • The Restoration dramatically changed the political landscape by reinstating the monarchy under Charles II, which shifted power back from republican governance to a centralized royal authority. This transition led to heightened tensions between different political factions, including royalists who supported the monarchy and parliamentarians who sought to maintain legislative power. The establishment of parties such as the Tories and Whigs further complicated this landscape, setting the stage for ongoing political debates and conflicts.
• Discuss the significance of literature and theater during the Restoration period.
  • Literature and theater flourished during the Restoration, representing a cultural revival after years of Puritan suppression. Playwrights like John Dryden and Aphra Behn contributed significantly to this resurgence by exploring themes of love, politics, and societal norms through their works. The reopening of public theaters allowed for a more diverse range of voices and styles, reflecting broader societal changes. This artistic explosion not only entertained but also challenged existing social conventions, contributing to the evolving cultural identity of England.
• Evaluate how social changes during the Restoration influenced modern perceptions of individualism and sexuality.
  • Social changes during the Restoration marked a departure from previous constraints on personal freedoms, fostering an environment where individualism and sexuality could be more openly expressed. The period encouraged a sense of personal agency as people began to challenge traditional norms regarding behavior, relationships, and gender roles. This shift laid foundational ideas for modern concepts of individuality and personal expression, influencing subsequent movements that advocated for greater rights and freedoms in society. The Restoration's legacy can be seen as pivotal in shaping contemporary attitudes towards self-identity and sexual liberation.

Related terms

Commonwealth: The Commonwealth was the republican government that ruled England from 1649 until 1660, led by Oliver Cromwell after the English Civil War.

Cavalier: Cavaliers were supporters of King Charles I during the English Civil War, often associated with royalist principles and the defense of monarchy.

Tory and Whig: The Tory and Whig parties emerged during the Restoration period, representing differing political factions in England; Tories were royalist supporters while Whigs favored parliamentary power.