10.3 The Oxford Movement and Its Literary Impact
4 min read•july 30, 2024
The Oxford Movement sought to revive Catholic traditions within the Anglican Church, challenging its perceived secularization. Led by Oxford scholars, it emphasized apostolic succession, church authority, and sacramental importance. This religious revival significantly impacted Victorian literature, shaping themes and aesthetics.
Writers like , Christina Rossetti, and incorporated Oxford Movement ideas into their work. Their poetry and prose explored spiritual struggles, personal devotion, and the sacramental nature of life, reflecting the movement's critique of modern society and yearning for traditional values.
Principles and Goals of the Oxford Movement
Revival of Traditional Catholic Teachings and Practices
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- The Oxford Movement sought to restore traditional Catholic teachings and practices within the Anglican Church
- Believed the Church of England had become too secular and liberal
- Key figures included John Keble, John Henry Newman, and , all Anglican clergymen and scholars at Oxford University
- Emphasized the importance of apostolic succession, which is the belief that bishops are the direct successors of the apostles
- Stressed the authority of the church and the centrality of the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist (Holy Communion)
The Via Media and Tracts for the Times
- Promoted the idea of the "via media," or middle way, between Protestantism and Roman Catholicism
- Argued that the Anglican Church was a branch of the true Catholic Church
- Disseminated the movement's ideas through a series of publications called "Tracts for the Times"
- Tracts argued for the restoration of traditional doctrine and liturgy in the Church of England
- Sought to revive interest in the Church Fathers and medieval Christianity
Influence of the Oxford Movement on Victorian Literature
Impact on Poetry and Prose
- Had a significant impact on Victorian literature, particularly in the areas of poetry and prose
- Many Victorian writers, such as John Keble, John Henry Newman, and Christina Rossetti, were directly involved in or influenced by the Oxford Movement
- Incorporated the movement's themes and ideas into their work
- Emphasis on the beauty and of the liturgy and sacraments influenced the aesthetic and symbolic qualities of Victorian poetry and prose
- Focus on the inner spiritual life and the importance of personal devotion and religious experience shaped the psychological and emotional depth of Victorian literature
Revival of Medieval Literature and Critique of Modern Society
- Interest in medieval Christianity and the works of the Church Fathers contributed to a revival of interest in medieval literature and culture
- Critique of modern industrial society and its call for a return to traditional values and ways of life resonated with many Victorian writers
- Writers were concerned about the social and moral consequences of industrialization and urbanization
- Sought to explore the spiritual and moral dimensions of human experience in an increasingly secular age
Representation of Oxford Movement Ideas in Victorian Literature
Poetry of John Keble and Christina Rossetti
- John Keble's poetry, particularly his collection "," reflects the Oxford Movement's emphasis on the liturgical calendar and the sacramental nature of Christian life
- Christina Rossetti's devotional poetry, such as "" and "," incorporates the movement's themes of temptation, sin, and redemption
- Rossetti's poetry also emphasizes the sacramental and symbolic aspects of Christian faith
- Both Keble and Rossetti's poetry reflects the movement's focus on personal devotion and religious experience
Novels of John Henry Newman and Charlotte Yonge
- John Henry Newman's novels, such as "" and "," explore the spiritual and intellectual struggles of individuals seeking religious truth and authenticity
- Novels reflect Newman's own journey from Anglicanism to Roman Catholicism and the influence of the Oxford Movement's ideas on his thought
- Charlotte Yonge's novels, such as "" and "," reflect the movement's ideals of religious devotion, , and the importance of tradition and community
- Yonge's novels emphasize the role of individual character and social life in shaping religious identity and practice
Gerard Manley Hopkins and the Sacramental Nature of the World
- The poetry and prose of Gerard Manley Hopkins reflect the Oxford Movement's emphasis on the sacramental nature of the world
- Hopkins' concept of "inscape," or the unique inner essence of things, reflects the movement's emphasis on the spiritual significance of the natural world
- His use of sprung rhythm, or a poetic meter based on stressed syllables, reflects the movement's emphasis on the importance of religious experience and expression
- Hopkins' work reflects the movement's attempt to find spiritual meaning and beauty in the modern world
Lasting Impact of the Oxford Movement on Literature and Religion
Revival of Interest in the Relationship between Literature and Religion
- Helped to revive interest in the relationship between literature and religion in and beyond
- Encouraged writers to explore religious themes and ideas in their work
- Emphasis on the aesthetic and symbolic qualities of Christian worship and devotion had a lasting influence on the way that literature approached religious subjects and themes
- Critique of modern secular culture and call for a return to traditional religious values and practices resonated with many writers in the 20th century (Catholic literary revival)
Ongoing Dialogue between Literature and Religion
- Ideas about the importance of community, tradition, and authority in religious life have continued to shape the way that literature represents and engages with religious institutions and practices
- Legacy can be seen in the ongoing dialogue between literature and religion in the modern era
- Writers continue to explore the spiritual and moral dimensions of human experience in a secular age
- Movement's emphasis on personal devotion, religious experience, and the sacramental nature of the world continues to influence the way that literature approaches religious themes and subjects
Key Terms to Review (24)
Anglo-Catholicism: Anglo-Catholicism is a movement within the Church of England that seeks to retain and emphasize the Catholic heritage of Anglicanism, highlighting the importance of sacraments, liturgy, and apostolic succession. This movement emerged from the Oxford Movement in the 19th century, which aimed to reform and revitalize the Church of England by reaffirming its Catholic roots and advocating for a more traditional worship style.
Callista: Callista refers to a specific aesthetic and theological ideal associated with beauty and holiness in the context of the Oxford Movement. This term embodies the movement's emphasis on the sacramental nature of the world, suggesting that true beauty is not merely superficial but also deeply connected to spiritual truths. Within this framework, callista highlights how literature and art can evoke a sense of the divine and inspire a deeper understanding of faith.
Edward Pusey: Edward Pusey was a prominent Anglican theologian and a key figure in the Oxford Movement, which sought to revive the Catholic heritage of the Church of England in the 19th century. His efforts significantly influenced the movement's emphasis on tradition, liturgy, and the sacraments, shaping the spiritual landscape of Anglicanism and its literary expressions during that time.
Goblin market: Goblin Market is a narrative poem written by Christina Rossetti that tells the story of two sisters, Laura and Lizzie, who encounter goblin merchants selling enchanted fruit. The poem explores themes of temptation, sacrifice, and the dynamics of sisterhood, connecting closely with the cultural and religious movements of its time, particularly the Oxford Movement, which sought to revive medieval spirituality and aesthetics in Anglicanism.
Heartsease: Heartsease is a term that refers to a state of tranquility or contentment, often linked to emotional well-being. The word evokes images of peace and comfort, suggesting a harmony between one's inner feelings and external circumstances. This term captures the essence of serenity in personal experiences and is particularly significant in the context of the Oxford Movement, where it reflects the pursuit of spiritual peace and moral alignment.
John Henry Newman: John Henry Newman was a 19th-century theologian, poet, and writer who played a crucial role in the Oxford Movement, which sought to reintroduce Catholic principles into the Church of England. His works emphasized the importance of conscience and the development of doctrine, influencing both religious thought and literature during his time.
John Keble: John Keble was a 19th-century Anglican priest and poet, best known for his role in the Oxford Movement, which sought to restore the Church of England's connection to its Catholic roots. His influential sermon on 'National Apostasy' in 1833 ignited the movement and emphasized the importance of ritual, tradition, and the sacraments in Anglican worship, impacting religious thought and literature during this time.
Loss and gain: Loss and gain refer to the dual processes of experiencing a deficit or disadvantage (loss) and acquiring a benefit or advantage (gain) within various contexts, including spiritual, emotional, and social dimensions. This concept can be particularly relevant in understanding the transformative nature of faith and belief systems, where individuals often navigate the complexities of what they must let go of to embrace new values or insights.
Lyricism: Lyricism refers to the quality of expressing emotions, thoughts, and feelings in a way that is melodious and poetic. It emphasizes personal expression and often focuses on themes of love, nature, and introspection, creating an intimate connection between the speaker and the audience. This term is significant in understanding various literary movements, especially in how it shapes narratives and poetry to convey deeper emotional truths.
Modernism: Modernism is a cultural, artistic, and literary movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by a break from traditional forms and an exploration of new techniques and perspectives. This movement often reflects a deep sense of disillusionment with established norms and conventions, particularly in response to rapid changes in society, technology, and worldviews.
Moral earnestness: Moral earnestness refers to a deep commitment to ethical principles and values, often characterized by sincerity, seriousness, and a genuine pursuit of goodness. This quality is reflected in actions and beliefs that prioritize moral integrity, aligning personal conduct with a strong sense of duty or righteousness. In various literary contexts, this concept shapes characters' motivations and the themes explored in their narratives.
Ritualism: Ritualism refers to the adherence to prescribed rituals, often emphasizing the form and performance of religious ceremonies over their spiritual or theological meanings. This concept can highlight a tension within religious practices, where the ritual itself becomes the primary focus rather than the underlying beliefs or values it represents. It is significant in understanding movements that stress the importance of tradition and ceremonial observance.
Sacramental theology: Sacramental theology is the study of the significance and meaning of sacraments within the Christian tradition, focusing on how these rituals facilitate a relationship between God and humanity. This branch of theology explores the nature, purpose, and effects of sacraments, emphasizing their role as means of grace and points of divine encounter. It examines how sacraments shape believers' lives and their understanding of faith, especially in historical contexts like the Oxford Movement.
Sacramental vision: Sacramental vision refers to the perspective that sees the material world as a means of encountering the divine, emphasizing the connection between physical experiences and spiritual realities. This view posits that everyday objects and rituals can serve as conduits for grace, allowing individuals to perceive and engage with the sacred in their lives. The Oxford Movement significantly promoted this vision, highlighting the importance of sacramental practices in deepening one's faith.
Spiritual Symbolism: Spiritual symbolism refers to the use of symbols to convey deeper meanings related to spirituality, faith, and the divine. These symbols often serve as representations of complex ideas, emotions, or concepts, allowing individuals to connect with spiritual experiences in a more profound way. This type of symbolism plays a crucial role in art and literature, often illustrating the relationship between humanity and the natural world or the divine, as well as influencing cultural movements that seek to reimagine spirituality.
Symbolism: Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities, often conveying deeper meanings that go beyond the literal sense. In literature, symbolism enriches narratives by linking characters, themes, and motifs to larger concepts, allowing for a multi-layered interpretation of texts.
T.S. Eliot: T.S. Eliot was a prominent American-British poet, essayist, and playwright known for his influential works that explore themes of spirituality, modernity, and existentialism. His writings often reflect the complexities of religion and its role in literature, making him a crucial figure in understanding the intersection of these two fields.
The Christian year: The Christian year, also known as the liturgical year, is a calendar that organizes the annual cycle of Christian festivals and seasons. It is structured around significant events in the life of Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Church, including Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and Pentecost. This cyclical calendar not only helps to mark time but also serves as a framework for worship, reflection, and spiritual growth within the Christian community.
The Dream of the Rood: The Dream of the Rood is an Old English poem that presents a vision of the crucifixion from the perspective of the Cross itself, personified as a character. This poem merges Christian themes with heroic elements, emphasizing the glory of Christ's sacrifice and the Cross’s role in salvation. Its rich imagery and emotional depth connect deeply with both religious and literary traditions, influencing later works in English literature.
The English Reformation: The English Reformation was a series of events in the 16th century that led to the Church of England breaking away from the authority of the Pope and the Roman Catholic Church. This movement was fueled by a combination of political, economic, and religious factors, ultimately transforming the religious landscape of England and influencing literature and culture. The English Reformation set the stage for subsequent movements, including the Oxford Movement, which sought to return to some traditional practices within the Anglican Church, leading to significant literary contributions in response to these changes.
The Heir of Redclyffe: The Heir of Redclyffe is a novel written by Charlotte M. Yonge, published in 1853, that explores themes of love, duty, and morality within the context of the Victorian era. It tells the story of a young man, Edgar, who struggles with his identity and familial obligations while navigating the complexities of relationships and personal choices. The novel is significant for its reflection on the ideals of the Oxford Movement, emphasizing spiritual depth and moral responsibility.
The prince's progress: The prince's progress refers to a literary and metaphorical journey of personal development, often depicted in the context of moral and spiritual growth. This term reflects the quest for self-discovery and ethical enlightenment, frequently associated with characters who navigate challenges that test their beliefs and values, aligning closely with the themes of the Oxford Movement and its literary influence.
Tractarianism: Tractarianism refers to a theological and social movement within the Church of England that emerged in the 19th century, primarily associated with the Oxford Movement. This movement sought to restore traditional Catholic practices and beliefs within Anglicanism, emphasizing the importance of liturgy, the sacraments, and apostolic succession. Tractarians advocated for a deeper spirituality and a more sacramental understanding of faith, which significantly influenced both religious thought and literature during this period.
Victorian England: Victorian England refers to the period of British history during the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901, characterized by industrial expansion, cultural development, and significant social change. This era witnessed the rise of the British Empire, the growth of the middle class, and profound shifts in social norms and values, all of which profoundly influenced literature and religious thought during the time.