1.3 Key authors and their contributions
3 min read•august 1, 2024
The Restoration period saw a burst of literary creativity, with authors like and shaping English literature. These writers tackled themes of politics, society, and morality, often using to critique the world around them.
From ' candid diaries to 's epic "," Restoration literature reflected the era's complexities. Writers pushed boundaries, exploring new genres and styles while grappling with changing social norms and scientific advancements.
Restoration Period Authors
Key Figures and Their Works
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- John Dryden dominated Restoration literature as England's first Poet Laureate wrote influential poetry, plays, and critical essays
- Samuel Pepys documented Restoration-era London in his diary provided firsthand accounts of social, political, and cultural life
- Aphra Behn pioneered professional female writing in English literature produced plays, novels, and poetry (Oroonoko)
- John Milton published epic poem "Paradise Lost" during Restoration era bridged Commonwealth and Restoration periods
- mastered Restoration comedy crafted witty dialogue and satirical social portrayals ()
- began career in late Restoration became known for satirical and philosophical poetry
- , wrote provocative libertine poetry challenged social norms with themes of sexuality and hedonism
Emerging Writers and Diverse Voices
- explored scientific and philosophical themes in her writing published "," an early work of science fiction
- , known as "The Matchless Orinda," wrote poetry on friendship and love gained recognition in literary circles
- produced numerous novels and plays contributed to the development of the English novel
- pioneered the genre wrote "," a quintessential Restoration comedy
Authors' Contributions to Literature
Literary Criticism and Form
- John Dryden's critical essays established enduring principles of literary criticism ("")
- Alexander Pope mastered form standardized poetic structures
- William Congreve refined comedy of manners genre elevated it with sophisticated wit and social commentary
- John Milton redefined epic poetry in English incorporated classical and biblical elements into Protestant narrative
Expanding Literary Horizons
- Aphra Behn paved way for future female authors explored themes of , , and
- Samuel Pepys introduced intimate, detailed non-fiction prose influenced development of autobiographical and journalistic writing
- Earl of Rochester challenged literary conventions and societal norms influenced later poets to explore taboo subjects
- Alexander Pope translated classical works made ancient literature more accessible to English readers
Innovation in Genre and Style
- Margaret Cavendish experimented with genre blending combined scientific discourse with imaginative fiction
- Eliza Haywood contributed to development of the novel genre explored themes of love, marriage, and social mobility
- George Etherege established conventions of the comedy of manners influenced subsequent playwrights in the genre
- Katherine Philips introduced new perspectives on female friendship and love in poetry challenged traditional gender roles in literature
Themes and Styles of Restoration Writers
Satirical and Critical Approaches
- Satire dominated Restoration literature critiqued social, political, and religious institutions
- Writers employed to expose societal flaws (Dryden's "Absalom and Achitophel," Pope's "The Rape of the Lock")
- Restoration comedy often satirized aristocratic manners and morals (Congreve's "The Way of the World," Etherege's "The Man of Mode")
- flourished addressed contemporary issues and figures (Dryden's "Mac Flecknoe")
Cultural and Social Reflections
- Literature explored renewed interest in courtly themes and aristocratic life reflected both celebration and criticism of monarchy
- Sexual themes and frank discussions of desire became prominent mirrored of Charles II's court
- Coffee house culture influenced literary styles led to more conversational and accessible prose
- Writers addressed changing social dynamics explored themes of class, gender, and social mobility
Literary Movements and Influences
- emerged as significant movement writers drew inspiration from classical Greek and Roman literature
- Rise of and scientific inquiry influenced literary styles led to more precise and analytical approaches to language
- Religious themes explored in complex, sometimes skeptical ways (Milton's "Paradise Lost," Dryden's "Religio Laici")
- development impacted prose style in fiction and non-fiction works created more direct and engaging writing
Key Terms to Review (29)
Alexander Pope: Alexander Pope was an influential English poet of the early 18th century, known for his mastery of the heroic couplet and his satirical verse. His work reflects the ideals of Neoclassicism and the Augustan Age, showcasing a blend of wit, moral reflection, and critique of society, which connects him to significant literary movements and figures of the time.
An Essay of Dramatic Poesy: An Essay of Dramatic Poesy is a literary work written by John Dryden in 1668 that articulates his thoughts on drama, the nature of poetry, and the distinction between ancient and modern playwrights. This essay not only defends the value of English drama but also engages in a critical dialogue regarding the purpose and effectiveness of different styles of poetry and theater. Dryden's piece is significant for its exploration of literary theory and its influence on subsequent writers.
Aphra Behn: Aphra Behn was a 17th-century English playwright, poet, and novelist, often recognized as one of the first professional female writers in England. Her work reflects the political and social shifts of the Restoration era, challenging gender norms and establishing her as a pivotal figure in the development of English literature and drama.
Colonialism: Colonialism is the practice of acquiring full or partial control over a territory and its people, often involving the establishment of settlements and the exploitation of resources. This term encompasses not just the physical domination of lands, but also the cultural, economic, and social impacts that arise from such control. It plays a significant role in shaping literature and thought during the late-17th to mid-19th century, influencing key authors and their contributions as well as the development of novel forms.
Comedy of manners: A comedy of manners is a theatrical genre that satirizes the manners and affectations of a particular social class, often the upper class, through witty dialogue and clever situations. This form of comedy reflects societal norms and critiques social behaviors, especially around issues like love, marriage, and social status, making it an important part of the literary landscape during its time.
Eliza Haywood: Eliza Haywood was an influential 18th-century English writer, known for her novels, plays, and contributions to the development of the modern novel. She is particularly noted for her exploration of women's experiences, agency, and desires in a male-dominated literary landscape, which makes her a key figure in early feminist literature.
Empiricism: Empiricism is a philosophical belief that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience and evidence, emphasizing observation and experimentation. This approach rejects the notion that knowledge can be gained through intuition or revelation alone and instead champions a systematic collection of data as the basis for understanding reality. Empiricism laid the groundwork for modern scientific methods and influenced many key authors who explored the relationship between human experience and knowledge in their writings.
Gender: Gender refers to the social and cultural roles, behaviors, and attributes that a society considers appropriate for men and women. This concept goes beyond biological differences, exploring how societal expectations shape identities and experiences. In literary studies, particularly during the late-17th to mid-19th century, understanding gender helps illuminate how authors reflected and challenged societal norms, revealing deeper insights into characters and themes.
George Etherege: George Etherege was an English playwright of the Restoration period, known for his contributions to the development of Restoration comedy. His works, characterized by sharp wit, social commentary, and a focus on romantic intrigue, paved the way for later playwrights and defined the conventions of comedic theater during this era.
Heroic couplet: A heroic couplet is a pair of rhymed lines of iambic pentameter, often used in English poetry to convey serious themes and ideas. This form became especially popular during the Restoration period, reflecting the political and social shifts of the time while also serving as a hallmark of neoclassical literary movements.
Individualism: Individualism is a social and political philosophy that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual, advocating for personal freedom and self-reliance. This concept connects deeply to various cultural and literary movements, influencing how characters are portrayed and how narratives unfold, particularly during periods of societal transformation.
John Dryden: John Dryden was a prominent English poet, playwright, and literary critic of the late 17th century, known for his influential role in shaping Restoration literature and drama. His works introduced new poetic forms and techniques, revitalized theatrical conventions, and established significant themes in Restoration tragedy, making him a central figure in the evolution of English literature during this period.
John Milton: John Milton was a 17th-century English poet and intellectual, best known for his epic poem 'Paradise Lost,' which explores themes of free will, obedience, and the human condition. His work significantly influenced the literary landscape of the period and connected with major authors and movements that shaped English literature.
John Wilmot, Earl of Rochester: John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester, was a prominent 17th-century English poet and courtier known for his satirical and often controversial poetry that reflects the hedonistic lifestyle of the Restoration period. His work is characterized by its wit, use of colloquial language, and exploration of themes like sexuality, politics, and the human condition, which significantly contributed to the literary landscape of his time.
Journalism: Journalism is the practice of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information to the public. It plays a crucial role in informing society about current events, providing a check on power, and fostering public discourse. In the late-17th to mid-19th century, journalism evolved significantly, reflecting the growing demand for information and the rise of literacy and periodicals during this period.
Katherine Philips: Katherine Philips was a 17th-century poet known for her eloquent and innovative poetry that explored themes of friendship, love, and female experience. As one of the first female poets to gain recognition in England, she played a significant role in the development of women's literature during the period, influencing both her contemporaries and future generations of writers.
Libertine culture: Libertine culture refers to a social movement during the late 17th to mid-19th century that emphasized individual freedom, sensual pleasure, and a rejection of conventional moral restraints. This culture celebrated hedonism and often challenged the established norms surrounding sexuality, religion, and authority, significantly impacting literature, philosophy, and societal views on personal liberty and expression.
Margaret Cavendish: Margaret Cavendish was a 17th-century English writer, philosopher, and scientist, known for her unique contributions to literature and her challenging of societal norms regarding gender and intellect. As one of the earliest female authors to publish under her own name, she explored themes of identity, nature, and the role of women in society, making her a significant figure in the context of key authors and their contributions during her time.
Neoclassicism: Neoclassicism is an artistic and literary movement that emerged in the late 17th century, emphasizing reason, order, and classical ideals derived from ancient Greek and Roman culture. This movement was characterized by its focus on clarity, harmony, restraint, and a structured approach to both art and literature, reflecting the political and social contexts of its time.
Paradise Lost: Paradise Lost is an epic poem written by John Milton, first published in 1667, that explores the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem intricately delves into themes of free will, obedience, and redemption, presenting a complex portrayal of Satan, Adam, and Eve as they navigate temptation and the consequences of disobedience to God. As a monumental work of literature, it significantly influences subsequent authors and highlights the tensions between faith and reason during a transformative period in English literature.
Political Satire: Political satire is a genre of literature and art that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize and expose the flaws and shortcomings of political figures, policies, and institutions. This form of expression not only entertains but also provokes thought and encourages social change by highlighting issues within the political landscape. In the late-17th to mid-19th century, political satire became a significant tool for writers to address social injustices and governmental incompetence, influencing public opinion and political discourse.
Race: Race refers to a socially constructed category that groups people based on shared physical characteristics, such as skin color, facial features, and hair texture. This concept has profound implications in various fields, particularly in literature, where it influences themes, character development, and societal commentary. The examination of race often highlights the complexities of identity, power dynamics, and the intersectionality of culture and history.
Samuel Pepys: Samuel Pepys was an English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, best known for his detailed diary that provides a first-hand account of life in 17th-century London during the Restoration period. His writings not only document significant historical events, such as the Great Fire of London and the Second Dutch War, but also offer insights into the political, social, and cultural life of the time, making him a vital figure in understanding the Restoration era.
Satire: Satire is a literary technique that uses humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize or mock social, political, or moral issues. It serves as a powerful tool for social commentary and is often employed to provoke thought and encourage reform by highlighting the flaws in individuals, institutions, or society as a whole.
The blazing world: The Blazing World is a utopian narrative written by Margaret Cavendish in 1666 that explores themes of gender, power, and the imagination. This work is significant for its innovative blend of fiction and philosophy, presenting an alternate universe where a female protagonist exerts control over her surroundings and challenges patriarchal norms. The story is notable for its use of imaginative elements, showcasing Cavendish’s unique perspective as one of the early female authors in literature.
The Man of Mode: The Man of Mode is a type of character found in Restoration comedy, typically representing the fashionable and often morally ambiguous gentleman of the time. This character embodies the wit, charm, and social aspirations of the emerging middle class while also satirizing their vices and superficiality. The Man of Mode plays a crucial role in exploring themes like love, courtship, and the conflicts between appearance and reality in society.
The way of the world: The way of the world refers to the prevailing social norms, behaviors, and attitudes that dictate human interactions and relationships, especially in the context of love, marriage, and moral conduct. This concept serves as a lens through which Restoration literature examines the complexities of human nature, societal expectations, and the often hypocritical moral standards of the time.
William Congreve: William Congreve was an influential English playwright and poet of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, best known for his comedies that reflect the social dynamics and moral complexities of Restoration England. His works are characterized by sharp wit, intricate plots, and a keen understanding of character, making him a key figure in the development of Restoration comedy and its themes of love, deception, and social commentary.
Wit and Irony: Wit refers to a form of intelligent humor, characterized by quick and inventive verbal humor. Irony, on the other hand, is a rhetorical device where the intended meaning is different from the actual meaning of the words used. Together, wit and irony create a sophisticated layer of meaning in literature, often highlighting contradictions between appearances and reality, which is crucial for understanding the nuances of literary works from this period.