Neoclassical Period Flashcards

Neoclassicism Overview

• Neoclassicism combines "neo," meaning new or young, with "classic," referring to the style of ancient Greek and Roman authors.
• Represents a rebirth and restoration of Classicism, emphasizing classical values in literature.

Historical Context

• The movement dominated English literature between 1680 and 1750, during the Age of Pope and Dryden, also known as the Augustan Age.
• Influenced by the literary traditions of the Roman Emperor Augustus, emulating writers like Horace, Virgil, and Ovid.

Key Periods in Neoclassicism

• Restoration Period (1660-1700): Marked by the restoration of King Charles II; noted poets include John Milton (e.g., "Paradise Lost"), John Dryden, and Samuel Butler.
• Augustan Age (1700-1745): Also called the Age of Pope, characterized by significant contributions from poets such as Alexander Pope, John Gay, and Jonathan Swift.
• Age of Johnson (up to 1798): Extended the characteristics of neoclassicism until the late 18th century.

Notable Writers and Their Works

• Augustan Poetry:
  • Prominent figures: Alexander Pope, John Gay, Jonathan Swift.
• Augustan Prose:
  • Key authors: Richard Steele, Joseph Addison, Alexander Pope, Eliza Haywood, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu.
• Augustan Novels:
  • Significant works include Samuel Richardson's "Pamela," Daniel Defoe's "Robinson Crusoe," and Jonathan Swift's "Gulliver's Travels."
• Augustan Drama:
  • Notable playwrights include Henry Fielding and John Gay, who wrote "The Beggar's Opera."

Characteristics of Neoclassical Poetry

• Rationalism: Emphasis on reason and intellect as critical elements of poetry.
• Scholarly Allusions: Poets drew from religious, biblical, and classical literature due to their education.
• Didactic Purpose: Aimed at instructing readers and imparting moral lessons.
• Realism: Presented a true picture of society, focusing on actual experiences.
• Adherence to Classical Rules: Prioritized classical structure and forms in their poetry.
• Heroic Couplet: Utilized a specific poetic form, with Dryden and Pope considered masters who refined it.
• Objectivity: Maintained emotional restraint, focusing on societal hardships rather than personal feelings.
• Concrete Diction: Used precise and rigorous language in their poetic expression.